Podcast
Productivity Gladiator
Hosted by Productivity Gladiator · EN
Sharing knowledge, hacks, and ideas on work-life balance and personal productivity, and talking to knowledgeable people in those areas.
23episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Why Smart People Still Have Bad Productivity Habits & How to Finally Change Them - with courtney clark
1w ago00:50:24Tap to summarizeWe’ve all been told since we were kids that "quitters never win." If you’ve ever found yourself white-knuckling a project that clearly isn't working, or if you feel like a failure for hitting 95% of a goal instead of 100%, I want you to hear this episode.I sat down with resilience expert Courtney Clark to talk about why our obsession with "grit" is actually making us less productive. And spoiler alert: the answer isn't just "trying harder." It’s exactly the opposite. The secret to surviving a high-change environment is learning how to pivot with purpose.Courtney and I totally geek out on the psychological traps that keep smart people stuck. She dropped this incredible concept about how our brains flip into an "implementation mindset" that turns us into the Energizer Bunny—we just keep going and going, even when we should be re-evaluating. We also dive into the "Peak-End Effect" and why we tend to remember the highs and lows of a project while completely forgetting the unglamorous "slog" of the daily grind that actually leads to success.We get super practical, too. We break down the difference between a "plan" and a "goal" and why your rigid checklists might actually be holding you back. Courtney shares her framework for turning "ABC goals" (Achievement, Behavior, and Comparison) into "VIP goals" (Values, Ideals, and Purpose). Plus, we have a great discussion about "parallel plans"—why having multiple paths to the same objective is far more powerful than just having a backup plan.If you want to stop feeling burned out by your to-do list and figure out exactly how to build "growth resilience" in your career, this is the conversation you need.References In This EpisodeCourtney Clark – CourtneyClark.com – Courtney’s home for research, speaking, and resources focused on building growth resilience. Courtney Clark on LinkedIn – Connect with Courtney professionally.Key Resources:CourtneyClark.com – The main hub for Courtney’s consulting and her insights on navigating change.The Shortcut– Courtney’s latest book detailing why we get stuck on the wrong paths and how to find a better way forward.The "Implementation Mindset" – Courtney’s core concept that once we start a task, our brains switch from evaluation to "Energizer Bunny" mode, making it hard to stop even if the plan is failing.Brian’s Resources:Worth Your Time– Brian's signature session on calculating the $/hour value of your time to identify which habits are worth your investment.Plan Your Week In Advance – Brian’s core strategy for creating a "parallel plan" for your life and ensuring your calendar reflects your true priorities.Tools & Techniques:VIP Goals – Courtney’s technique for "supersizing" objectives by shifting from Achievement-based targets to Values, Ideals, and Purpose.Parallel Planning – The framework for running multiple different strategies simultaneously toward the same goal, rather than relying on a singular "backup plan."Calm in Chaos– Brian's 5-step process to successfully prioritize and stay focused when everything on your to-do list feels "urgent."Concepts & Frameworks:The Grit Trap – Why over-indexing on perseverance can actually backfire, leading to "tunnel vision" and a refusal to pivot away from a broken strategy.The Peak-End Effect – The psychological phenomenon where we remember the intense highs and lows of a project but forget the long, unglamorous "slog" of the daily grind.Goals vs. Plans – The critical distinction between your ultimate destination (the goal) and the specific, often fragile path you’ve chosen to get there (the plan).Goal Commitment Scarcity – The reality that your energy and resources are finite; every "yes" to a failing plan is a "no" to a better opportunity.Subscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to Productivity and Resilience02:49 The Importance of Adaptability Over Grit05:36 The Gap Between Knowledge and Action07:24 Understanding Resource Management10:13 Finding the Balance Between Grit and Adaptability12:56 Strategies for Effective Goal Management15:40 The Role of Leaders in Supporting Adaptability18:25 Evaluating Goals and Resources21:10 Conclusion and Key Takeaways26:16 Supersizing Your Goals29:00 Productivity Habits and Inbox Zero36:42 Flexibility in Achieving Goals39:18 Understanding Bad Productivity Habits44:53 Finding Your Super Sized GoalToday’s GuestCourtney ClarkResilience Researcher, Author, and Keynote SpeakerCourtney Clark is a globally recognized resilience researcher and change strategist who specializes in helping high-performers adapt faster and achieve more. She is a fierce advocate for "growth resilience"—the ability to shift away from the "grit trap" that often keeps smart people stuck in failing plans long past their expiration date. Courtney is deeply passionate about helping professionals navigate massive disruption with clarity, teaching them to "supersize" their goals to reach their ultimate objectives even when life doesn't go according to plan. Known as the "luckiest unlucky person in the world," Courtney’s expertise is forged from both rigorous data-driven research and her extraordinary personal journey as a four-time 9/11-related cancer survivor and brain aneurysm survivor. She has built two successful businesses and authored several acclaimed books, including her most recent,ReVisionary Thinking: When You Have to Change Your Plan to Reach Your Goal. Her work has been featured on CNN, ABC, Forbes, and USA Today, and she has delivered her practical, high-energy insights to Fortune 100 organizations like Nike, Google, and Dell. <...
Transcribe →Future-Proof Your Job From AI: The Skills That Make You Indispensable - with Rosie Ward
Apr 2001:05:28Tap to summarizeIf you've been reading the headlines lately, it feels like every day there's a new story about AI taking over jobs and downsizing departments. If that topic gives you anxiety, I want you to hear this episode.I sat down with Rosie Ward, CEO of Salveo Partners, to talk about how to actually future-proof your career. And spoiler alert: the answer isn't learning how to code or acting more like a machine. It's exactly the opposite. The secret to surviving the AI revolution is doubling down on your humanness.Rosie and I totally geek out on what makes someone truly indispensable right now. She dropped this incredible concept about how most of us are trying to navigate massive workplace disruption while running on a "10-year-old inner operating system"—a biological response that completely freaks out when change happens. We also dive into the workplace crisis of "anti-mattering" and why skipping the first 30 seconds of genuine human connection in your meetings is destroying your team's performance.We get super practical, too. I share my "5 Steps of AI" to show you why we're all just going to become AI supervisors, and we break down the critical difference between managing a "process" (which AI will take) and leading a "project" (which AI can't touch). Plus, if you're an introvert? Rosie actually pushes back hard on my theory that managing bots is the perfect job for you to avoid people. It's a great debate, and I love that she called me out on it!If you want to stop fearing the AI transition and figure out exactly what power skills you need to focus on today to protect your livelihood, this is the conversation you need.References In This EpisodeRosie Ward – Salveo Partners – Rosie's main consulting website and company home focused on rehumanizing workplaces.Rosie Ward on LinkedIn – Connect with Rosie professionally.Key Resources:SalveoPartners.com – Rosie's main hub for consulting, future-proofing organizations, and her speaking resources.Future Proofing Leadership: Navigating Change and Disruption to Thrive in an Uncertain World– Rosie's brand new book detailing her research on how to navigate the messy human side of change.Show Up as a Leader– Rosie's podcast, featuring deep-dive conversations and her bite-sized "Rosie in My Pockets" mini-episodes.The "Inner Operating System" – Rosie’s core concept that our subconscious workplace reactions are governed by faulty biological programming (often developed around age 10) that actively resists change to protect us.Brian's Resources:Plan Your Week In Advance – Brian's core philosophy (preached heavily in this episode!) for carving out dedicated time on your calendar for self-development and learning new AI tools before it's too late. Tools & Techniques:The Two-Word Check-In – Rosie's technique for starting meetings (e.g., using an "Above the line/below the line" pulse check) to gauge the team's humanity before diving into the agenda.The 5 Steps of AI Integration – Brian's framework showing how AI actually enters the workplace, moving from basic scripts all the way to agentic AI, proving why we will all become "AI Supervisors."RACI Matrix – The project management tool mentioned by Rosie (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed) to clarify communication and avoid stepping on toes during workplace transitions.Concepts & Frameworks:Anti-Mattering – The workplace crisis (citing Zach Mercurio's work) where employees feel completely invisible and like nobody cares, which destroys retention and team safety.Project vs. Process Management – Brian's distinction: AI will easily take over repetitive processes (like monthly billing), but it can never replace the human "cat-herding" and relationship-building required to lead a true project.The Introvert Myth – The misconception that introverts want to avoid people and would rather just manage bots. Rosie (citing Susan Cain's work) explains it's actually about energy management, and introverts bring essential "quiet power" to team dynamics.Power Skills vs. Soft Skills – Why authenticity, empathy, learning agility, and ethical decision-making are no longer "soft" fluff, but the absolute indispensable power skills you need to survive AI.Other Experts Mentioned: Zach Mercurio (Mattering), Susan Cain (The Quiet Revolution), and Brené Brown (Dare to Lead / the importance of self-awareness).Subscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Future Proofing Your Job from AI04:53 The Human Element in Leadership08:49 Navigating Change in the Age of AI13:03 Essential Human Skills for the Future17:48 Building Connections in a Digital World22:31 Leading Change and Innovation26:17 Creating Opportunities in New Markets33:39 Community Engagement and Organizational Responsibility35:31 The Human Element in Business Relationships37:44 Monetizing Non-Sales Functions40:02 Enhancing Efficiency and Reducing Costs40:45 Managing Communications in an AI World44:47 Opportunities for Introverts in AI Management48:36 Understanding the Human Element in Leadership52:55 Future-Proofing Teams and Organizations55:35 Navigating AI Ethics and Regulations01:01:23 The Importance of Self-Awareness in LeadershipToday’s GuestRosie wardCEO and Founder, Salveo PartnersRosie Ward is the CEO and founder of Salveo Partners and a fierce advocate for rehumanizing the workplace. She is an energetic thought leader, consultant, coach, and inspirational speaker who f...
Transcribe →Fight "Busy" With The "COAT" Method: Tell The Difference Between Productive and Busy - Sarah Ohanesian
Mar 1900:59:05Tap to summarizeWhat if being "productive" is actually just you performing in a "Productivity Parade"? Brian sits down with Sarah Ohanesian, productivity expert and founder of SO Productive, who reveals why we're so easily lured into the "busy trap" and how performative work (hello, mouse jigglers) is ruining our actual output. Turns out, checking off 50 tiny, insignificant tasks might feel good in the moment, but it's leaving you exhausted and behind on what actually matters.This conversation gets practical fast: discover why putting "write a book" on your daily to-do list is a guaranteed recipe for Friday afternoon depression, learn to identify the "Quicksand Conundrum" of doing the wrong tasks really well, and find out how to stop micromanaging while actually helping your team. Sarah breaks down her signature COAT method, explaining why your tasks are scattered across a dozen Post-it notes and how to finally separate lofty goals from bite-sized action items. Brian counters with his insights on meeting culture, and together they tackle the manager's dilemma: how to close the "clarity gap" so your team knows exactly what's expected of them.If you're ending your workdays exhausted but feeling like you didn't actually accomplish anything, or if your team is drowning in reactive chaos, this episode is your way out. The show notes include the COAT framework, strategies to stop the endless pushing of due dates, and the exact steps to transition from "busy" to truly productive.References In This EpisodeSarah Ohanesian – SO Productive – Sarah's main consulting website and company home.Sarah Ohanesian on LinkedIn – Connect with Sarah professionally.Key Resources:SarahOhanesian.com – Sarah's main hub for her speaking, training, and resources.GetSuperProductive.com – Sarah's consulting and tech implementation (like Asana) branch.NewPathFwd.com – Sarah's tag-team speaking and training brand.The COAT Method – Sarah’s signature framework for fighting the busy trap and getting truly organized.Brian's Resources:"Calm In Chaos" – Brian's signature conference session on successfully prioritizing and focusing when you are drowning in tasks."This Meeting Could Have Been an Email" – Brian's signature session on effective meeting management and protecting your time.Tools & Techniques:The Three Places to Write Things Down – Brian's framework: Calendar (where to be), To-Do List (what to do), and Notes/Checklists (what to remember).Central Source of Truth – Sarah's rule for picking one tool you actually enjoy to organize all your tasks instead of scattered Post-it notes.Concepts & Frameworks:The Productivity Parade – The trap of doing things just to "look busy" or be seen (like accepting every meeting invite or using a mouse jiggler).Goals vs. To-Dos – The critical difference between a massive, lofty aspiration ("Write a book") and a bite-sized, actionable task ("Write one sentence").The "Push It" Protocol – The bad habit of constantly pushing a due date back because the task is too big to tackle.The Quicksand Conundrum – The danger of doing the wrong tasks really well and sinking your true productivity.Subscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to Productivity vs. Busy00:55 Understanding Productivity and Its Importance03:56 The Busy Trap: Chaos vs. Productivity06:35 Introducing the COPE Method10:23 Organizing Tasks Effectively14:59 Taking Action: The Importance of Acting25:05 The Importance of Taking Time Off29:46 Finding Clarity in Nature32:54 The Importance of Me Time34:14 Avoiding the Productivity Parade38:55 Understanding Metrics that Matter40:53 Urgent vs. Important Tasks43:52 Navigating the Quicksand Conundrum48:41 The Power of Writing Things Down52:17 Encouraging Clarity in ManagementToday’s GuestSarah OhanesianFounder & Productivity Expert, SO ProductiveSarah Ohanesian is a keynote speaker, trainer, and the founder of SO Productive, dedicated to helping professionals get meaningful work done without the burnout. Her journey into productivity didn't start in a textbook; it started in the trenches. As a busy Chief Marketing Officer running a multi-million dollar business, she looked successful on the outside but was completely exhausted on the inside. After missing family events, sacrificing her health, and constantly feeling like she had nothing left for her family at the end of the day, she realized that wearing "busy" as a badge of honor was not a sustainable way to live.To save her own career and well-being, Sarah created a simple, structured system to take back control of her day—allowing her to accomplish more while actually leaving the office while the sun was still out. Now known as "Your Productivity BFF," she turns chaos into structure for other busy professionals and organizations. Through SO Productive and her consulting work, she rolls up her sleeves to uncover the root causes of workplace stress and inefficiency, delivering targeted, actionable solutions (like her signature COAT method) to help teams communicate clearer and feel less overwhelmed.What sets Sarah apart is her Midwestern grit combined with East Coast hustle. She has a unique talent for taking complex, off-the-wall ideas and simplifying them into repeatable processes. She doesn't just want you to get more things checked off a list; she wants to move you from survival mode to becoming a smart, sustainable leader who actually has the mental capacity to enjoy life outside of work.Connect with Sarah:LinkedIn: Sarah OhanesianWebsite: SO-Productive.comSpeaking & Resources: SarahOhanesian.comWhy 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 train Productivity Gladiators to level up their careers. Graduates wield superpowers in time management, practical leadership, communication, & productivity. If what you’ve seen here intrigues you, reach out, let’s chat! <p da...
Transcribe →Weekly Planning Mistakes That Kill Your Productivity - Demir Bentley
Feb 800:59:35Tap to summarizeWhat if 94% of managers know the secret to productivity but only 0.8% actually use it? Brian sits down with Demir Bentley, who nearly died from working 100-hour weeks in finance before discovering the "religion of leverage" that transformed him into someone running a multi-seven-figure business in under 30 hours per week. The kicker? The entire transformation hinges on one deceptively simple practice that takes just 30 minutes—and Demir's got the data to prove most people are sabotaging themselves by skipping it.This conversation gets brutally honest fast: discover why your calendar is a "bald-faced liar" that's setting landmines to blow up your week, learn the "Europe prepack" technique that'll expose your magical thinking before Monday morning chaos hits, and find out why planning faster—not slower—is actually your secret weapon. Demir reveals his 6-step framework that treats weekly planning like water skiing (lose speed and you sink), including the "stupid tax" you're paying every time you miss a conflicting meeting you could've caught five days earlier. Brian counters with his GLOWS framework for life balance, and together they tackle the manager's dilemma: how do you get your team to plan without micromanaging them into resentment?If you're drowning in meetings, ending every Friday wondering where your priorities went, or carrying "Sunday scaries" through your entire weekend, this episode is your intervention. The show notes include both frameworks, the planning videos that'll change how you see your week, and the exact calendar blocking strategy to join the 0.8% who actually win their weeks.References In This EpisodeDemir Bentley on LinkedInLifehack Method (website + free masterclass)Winning the Week (Amazon)Winning the Week (Audiobook on Audiblle)Video links Brian mentioned:Big RocksA Valuable Lesson for a Happier LifeDemir’s 6-step weekly planning summaryStep 0: Choose the right place + reward (make planning feel easier to start)Step 1: Learn one quick lesson from last week (more of what worked, less of what didn’t)Step 2:Interrogate your calendar (find conflicts, travel time, hidden “landmines”)Step 3: Triage your task list (it won’t all get done, decide what matters)Step 4: Choose one leverage priority (the 80/20 win for the week)Step 5/6: Calendarize your week like a “pre-pack” (see what fits, then adjust)Brian’s GLOWS framework:G — Growth: learning, challenge, skill-buildingL — Love & Relationships: family, friends, spouse/date timeO — Others: giving/volunteering, something bigger than youW — Work: big rocks and key commitmentsS — Self: the first things to protect when busy: sleep, food, fitnessThe change adoption curve link Diffusion of Innovations (innovators → early adopters → early majority → late majority → laggards)Technology Adoption Life Cycle (bell curve)Subscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to Productivity and Planning Mistakes03:05 The Shift from Hustle Culture to Leverage05:43 The Importance of Planning Your Week Ahead08:29 Understanding the Resistance to Weekly Planning10:25 Creating an Algorithm for Winning Your Week12:57 The Psychological Benefits of Planning Ahead16:02 Step-by-Step Guide to Effective Weekly Planning18:46 Creating a Rewarding Planning Environment21:23 Choosing Your Hard: The Importance of Planning24:37 Steps to Effective Weekly Planning27:55 Demir's Six Steps to Winning the Week31:20 The Importance of Speed in Productivity32:29 Planning Your Week in Advance36:27 Balancing Work and Personal Life41:14 Empowering Managers to Support Their Teams46:59 The Role of Enrollment in Team Productivity52:40 Taking Action: The First Step to ChangeToday’s GuestDemir bentleyCo-Founder & Productivity Expert, Lifehack MethodDemir Bentley is an executive productivity coach, co-founder of Lifehack Method, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of Winning the Week: How to Plan a Successful Week, Every Week.Demir helps high-performing professionals escape burnout without sacrificing results. His work focuses on practical efficiency and real accountability, built for people who are tired of working harder and are ready to win their week with less stress and more control.Through Lifehack Method, Demir and his team have supported 100,000+ professionals, including executives from Facebook, Google, Uber, and PepsiCo, as well as teams from Microsoft and Caterpillar, helping them prevent burnout and create more freedom in their lives.Demir’s approach has been featured in ABC News, Forbes, Fast Company, Bloomberg, and Entrepreneur, and his community, the Lifehack Tribe, is designed for professionals who want to stop burning out and start hitting 12-month goals in 3 months.Connect with Demir:Lifehack Tribe Community: <a href="http://lifehackmethod....
Transcribe →Should I Quit Social Media? A Digital Marketing Expert’s Answer (You’ll Be Surprised) - Corey Perlman
Nov 401:04:26Tap to summarizeShould I quit social media? A debate with a social media & digital marketing expert - With Corey Perlman What if the secret to winning at social media is barely being on it at all? Brian debates social media expert Corey Perlman, who runs a digital marketing agency but doesn't even have Instagram on his phone—and that contradiction is exactly the point. Turns out the productivity drain isn't social media itself; it's the doom scrolling that's stealing 40 minutes of your day while you pretend you're "networking." Corey drops the truth bomb that influencer metrics and business metrics are completely different games, yet most professionals are playing by Instagram rules and wondering why they feel like failures when seven people like their post.This conversation gets practical fast: discover the "rented land vs. owned land" framework that'll save you from platform catastrophe, learn why your LinkedIn company page isn't dead (just neglected), and find out exactly how to be authentically present online without pressing a single button yourself. Brian and Corey tackle the hypocrite's dilemma head-on—can you tell people to quit social while still posting yourself?—and land on a game-changing distinction that lets you have your cake and eat it too. You'll get the app blocker that nukes newsfeeds while keeping connections alive, the 15-minute commenting strategy that builds real relationships without the scroll spiral, and the truth about which platforms actually matter for your business (hint: stop chasing TikTok if you're selling B2B).If you're trapped between FOMO and burnout, convinced you need social media but hate what it's doing to your brain, this episode hands you the escape hatch. The show notes include all the tools to take back control starting today.References In This EpisodeCorey Perlman – Impact Social Media – Corey's LinkedIn profile and Impact Social Media websiteKey Resources:Authentically Social – Corey's book on being authentic on social media for businessCorey's Instagram – @CoreyPerlmanSpeaksCoreyPerlman.com – Corey's main websiteBrian's Resources:Social Media Addiction with Tech Hacks to Fix It – Brian's blog post with tools to combat social media time wasteShould I Quit Social Media? A Debate With A Focus Expert - Penny Zenker – The primer discussion before this debateBrian's TEDx Talk on Time Management – His signature presentation on productivityTools & Techniques:Block It App – Safari browser extension that blocks social media newsfeeds while keeping notifications visible15-Minute Social Media Blocks – Corey's time-blocking strategy: 15 minutes for OPP (Other People's Posts), 15 minutes for connection requestsContent Creation vs. Posting Separation – Strategy of texting content to someone else to post on your behalfConcepts & Frameworks:Rented Land vs. Owned Land – Understanding which digital properties you control (website, email list) versus platforms you don't (social media)Influencer Marketing vs. Business Marketing – Critical distinction between vanity metrics and conversion metricsQuality Audience Over Large Audience – Business success doesn't require thousands of followers"You Can Be On Social Media Without Being On Social Media" – Chapter from Corey's book on maintaining presence without constant engagementThe New Rich Concept – From Tim Ferriss's The 4-Hour Work Week about $10K/month in perpetuity vs. chasing millionsHiring & Outsourcing Options:Fiverr – Entry-level social media helpUpwork – Platform for hiring freelance social media managersCollege interns – Another cost-effective option mentionedSubscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to the Debate on Social Media06:42 The Duality of Social Media: Good and Bad08:24 Navigating Social Media Without Being Overwhelmed12:02 The Importance of Early Social Media Engagement16:49 Influencer Marketing vs. Business Marketing22:20 Staying Unforgettable in a Digital World31:55 Categorizing Social Media Platforms32:52 Navigating Social Media for Business37:53 The Role of LinkedIn in Professional Networking43:49 Balancing Personal and Business Presence46:39 Prioritizing Social Media in Marketing Strategies48:43 Managing Time on Social Media59:28 Taking Control of Social Media UsageToday’s GuestCorey PerlmanFounder & Digital Marketing Expert, Impact Social MediaCorey Perlman is a social media and digital marketing expert with 15 years of experience helping businesses navigate online presence without losing their focus. As both a keynote speaker and agency owner, he bridges strategy and execution—his team runs social media for about 50 companies while he speaks to audiences about the bigger picture.His book, Authentically Social, challenges one-size-fits-all tactics and pushes for genuine storytelling over billboard-style posting. Corey specializes in helping professionals separate influencer marketing (chasing likes and followers) from business marketing (quality audiences and conversions)—a shift that changes how people show up online.What sets Corey apart is his perspective: he grew up with MySpace and early Facebook, but he’s old enough to remember life before social dominated everything. He sees both the strategic value of social and the real mental-health costs of constant engagement. He uses Instagram sparingly (about once a week) and delegates posting, and he’s removed Facebook from his phone to protect his attention.Corey’s philosophy is simple: you can be fully present on social without living on the platforms. Create authentic content; let someone else press the buttons. And never forget the difference between rented land (social platforms that can change the rules) and owned land (your website and email list).As a father of a teenage daughter and an 11-year-old son, Corey thinks deeply about social’s impact on the next generation, making his expertise both professional and personal. His north star: be strategic, intentional, and...
Transcribe →The Bad Productivity Habits That Drive Away Your Best Employees - With Cara Silletto
Sep 3000:52:33Tap to summarizeThink your productivity systems are helping your team? They might be driving your best people straight out the door.Brian sits down with retention expert Cara Silletto, who's spent 13 years figuring out why good employees quit, and the answers will make you rethink everything about your management style. Turns out that one-size-fits-all approach you're so proud of? It's treating orchids like cacti, and your team is withering because of it. Cara reveals the generational blind spots that have leaders scratching their heads while talent walks away, plus the uncomfortable truth about why your "common sense" expectations are anything but common.This conversation gets tactical fast: discover the ChatGPT trick that instantly exposes whether you're a delegation disaster, learn why your meeting style might be silencing half your team, and find out how your follow-through failures are quietly destroying trust. Brian and Cara dive deep into the spectrum of leadership styles, from micromanagement hell to delegate-and-abandon disasters, showing you exactly where that sweet spot lives.You'll walk away with the houseplant framework for understanding your team's needs, a system for operationalizing check-ins that actually matter, and the communication preference conversation that stops mind-reading madness before it starts. Plus, they reveal why those productive latchkey Gen Xers are clashing with collaborative millennials and Gen Z workers who need different kinds of support.If you're hemorrhaging talent, confused why good people keep leaving, or ready to stop accidentally sabotaging your own team's success, this episode maps out the leadership moves that keep your best people around.Ready to become the boss people actually want to work for? The show notes are packed with tools and templates to get started.References In This EpisodeCara Silletto – Magnet Culture – Cara's LinkedIn profile and Magnet Culture websiteKey Resources:Magnet Vault – Cara's collection of downloadable tools and templates for managersGet to Know You Sheet – Template for understanding team members' communication and praise preferences (available in Magnet Vault)Staying Power: Why Your Employees Leave and How to Keep Them Longer – Cara's 2018 book on employee retentionBrian's Resources:Team Communication Protocol – Blog post and template for establishing clear communication channels and preferences"This Meeting Could Have Been an Email" – Brian's signature conference session on effective meeting managementTools & Techniques:ChatGPT Delegation Test – Use the prompt "ask me questions one at a time until you have everything you need" to evaluate your delegation clarityCalendar Color-Coding System – Cara's method using purple blocks for non-meeting tasksOne-on-One Agenda Framework – Structure for regular check-ins with team membersConcepts & Frameworks:Employee Retention Ecosystem – Cara's systematic approach to retention strategyHouseplant Spectrum – Management framework from high-maintenance "orchids" to low-maintenance "cacti" employeesLatchkey Generation Theory – Understanding generational differences in independence and problem-solving approachesCommunication Preferences Mapping – Systematic approach to understanding how each team member prefers to receive information and feedbackSubscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to Productivity and Employee Retention01:37 Understanding Generational Gaps in the Workforce03:06 The Impact of Leadership Habits on Employee Retention06:48 Balancing Processes and People in Leadership10:28 Identifying Employee Needs: The Houseplant Analogy13:13 Communication: The Key to Effective Leadership17:20 Unwritten Expectations and Their Impact on Workplace Culture19:34 The Importance of Clear Communication in Delegation23:42 Finding the Balance in Delegation and Empowerment25:28 Empowering Employees to Find Answers28:10 The Spectrum of Leadership Styles30:24 Generational Differences in Critical Thinking32:36 Time Management and Meeting Effectiveness37:24 Reliability and Accountability in Leadership43:07 Making Productivity Skills Contagious46:21 Operationalizing Check-Ins for Better CommunicationToday’s GuestCara SillettoPresident & Chief Retention Officer, Magnet CultureCara Silletto is a workplace retention expert who has spent 13 years helping leaders keep their best people longer by understanding today's multigenerational workforce. Born in 1981 as one of the oldest millennials, she launched her career bridging generational gaps after recognizing that communication breakdowns between managers and employees were driving costly turnover.Her book, Staying Power: Why Your Employees Leave and How to Keep Them Longer (2018), established her as a leading voice in retention strategy before it became a mainstream business priority. Cara specializes in translating generational differences into actionable management practices, helping leaders adapt their communication and leadership styles to engage everyone from exhausted Gen Xers to collaborative Gen Z workers.What sets Cara apart is her systematic, process-driven approach to the "softer side" of leadership. Despite being deeply people-focused, she operates like an industrial engineer, creating frameworks and systems that make individualized employee care scalable. Her signature "Employee Retention Ecosystem" and "houseplant spectrum" management model help leaders balance productivity with personalized attention.Cara's speaking and training programs combine generational insights with practical tools, always asking "who is today's new workforce?" Her team includes Gen Z trainers who help keep her content current as workplace expectations continue evolving. She believes retention isn't just about understanding young employees—it's about recognizing that every generation has shifted their relationship with work over the past decade.Currently running Magnet Culture as a fully remote team, Cara practices what she preaches about flexible, individualized management while maintaining rigorous operational systems.Connect with Cara: LinkedIn: Cara SillettoWebsite: magnetculture.com
Transcribe →The Productivity Skills That Will Fast-Track Your Promotions - with Kendall Berg
Aug 2801:00:18Tap to summarizeEver wonder why some high performers skyrocket while others stay stuck in middle management hell?Brian teams up with career coach Kendall Berg, who cracked the code after getting promoted five times in six years—and it wasn't by working harder. This conversation gets uncomfortably real about workplace politics, invisible performance reviews, and why your boss probably has zero clue about your actual contributions. Kendall opens up about her journey from being "too direct, too stubborn, too emotional" to mastering the unspoken rules that actually drive promotions, while Brian shares his AI trick that instantly reveals whether you're delegating like a pro or driving your team crazy.You'll walk away with immediately usable tactics: the magic of investing 20% of your time in relationships, how to handle "urgent" requests without becoming a pushover, and the email structure that makes people think you're incredibly thoughtful. Plus, they pull back the curtain on what really happens in those executive rooms where promotion decisions get made—and why knowing your boss's peers might be more important than impressing your boss.If you're exhausted from working endless hours without advancement, confused by office politics, or ready to stop waiting for someone to notice your hard work, this episode reveals the strategic moves that separate the promoted from the passed-over.Ready to level up? Dive into the resources and links waiting in the show notes!References In This EpisodeKendall Berg – “That Career Coach” – Kendall’s website and LinkedIn profileBooks Mentioned:Secrets of the Career Game – Kendall’s book with 36 strategies to help high performers move up in their careers.The Extraordinary Leader: Turning Good Managers into Great Leaders– book by John Zenger and Joseph Folkman, recommended during the episode.Concepts & Frameworks:Nine Box performance evaluation systemCross calibrations/Performance calibrations meetings3-2-1 backup strategy (mentioned in context)CORE delegation framework (Context, Oversight, Resources, Expectation)ARS email template (Acknowledge, Restate, Solve)Subscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to Productivity Skills for Promotions02:59 Kendall's Unique Approach to Career Coaching05:25 The Gap Between High Performers and Stagnation08:28 Understanding Performance Reviews and Visibility10:55 Navigating Urgency and Productivity13:17 Effective Networking and Relationship Building16:16 Planning and Structuring Your Work Week18:56 The Importance of Strategy in Career Advancement30:23 The Importance of Automation and Goal Setting32:37 Effective Communication in Management35:52 Delegation and AI: A New Era of Productivity41:00 Communication Habits for Career Advancement54:36 Navigating the Career Game: Insights from Kendall's BookToday’s GuestKendall BergCareer Coach, Leadership Development Expert, Corporate Strategy ConsultantKendall Berg is a career strategist and executive coach who transforms high-performing professionals into promotion-ready leaders. After struggling with workplace politics early in her career—being "too direct, too stubborn, too emotional"—she developed tactical systems that propelled her through five promotions in six years, culminating in a CFO offer before age 30.Her book, Secrets of the Career Game: 36 Strategies to Get Ahead in Your Career, serves as a no-nonsense tactical guide for navigating corporate realities. Kendall specializes in helping middle managers break through to executive levels by mastering the unspoken rules of workplace advancement, relationship building, and strategic communication.Known for her refreshingly honest approach, Kendall doesn't sugarcoat corporate life or pretend workplaces are meritocracies. Instead, she equips clients with concrete templates, scripts, and frameworks to advocate for themselves effectively while staying authentic. She believes career success isn't about working harder—it's about working strategically and building the right relationships.Currently balancing her coaching practice with a corporate role (because her boss "refuses to let her go"), Kendall brings real-world credibility to her advice. She's the coach for professionals tired of playing games they don't understand.Connect with Kendall:LinkedIn: Kendall BergWebsite: thatcareercoach.netWhy 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 train Productivity Gladiators to level up their careers. Graduates wield superpowers in time management, practical leadership, communication, & productivity. If what you’ve seen here intrigues you, reach out, let’s chat! “Time is the currency of your life, spend it wisely.”
Transcribe →Digital Organization Mistakes That Kill Productivity - With Judith Guertin
Jul 3100:51:25Tap to summarizeDigital Organization Mistakes That Kill Productivity - With Judith GuertinWhat happens when two organizing experts get real about wrangling life’s digital chaos?In this episode, Brian sits down with digital-organization veteran Judith Guertin, and the conversation quickly gets refreshingly honest. They share their recent experiences—Brian’s panic over scattered note-taking apps and Judith’s frustration with app clutter and forgotten downloads. Expect laughter, self-confessions, and real-world examples that hit home: Brian reveals he’s guilty of never clearing his downloads folder, while Judith confesses she’s hopped between platforms chasing the “next best thing.”They dive into actionable strategies you can start using today—like sticking with one note-taking system, voice-dictating your thoughts, naming files with consistent conventions, and relying on proven backup methods (like the 3–2–1 strategy). You’ll also discover how AI tools like Gemini, Magi.ai, and Microsoft Loop are reshaping the way we organize digital lives—balancing excitement with critical thinking.Whether you're weary of tool fatigue, lost in folders, or curious how AI can support (not sabotage) your productivity, this episode delivers clarity—and a few laughs along the way.Want to go deeper? Check out the show notes and reference links below!References In This EpisodeJudith Guertin - Judith’s professional Linkedin ProfileBeyond the Estate Plan Guide – Judith’s book to organize vital personal and digital information.All Ways Organized – Judith’s professional organizing & digital consulting firm.AppSumo – referenced during discussion on "bright shiny object" syndrome and tool overload.Mem.ai – example of an AI note-taking platform and risks of using emerging tools.Google Gemini in Drive – Brian’s preferred tool for querying notes within Google Docs.Microsoft Loop – discussed as a live, collaborative component across Microsoft apps.Magai.co – Judith’s centralized AI tool for managing multiple chat systems.Communication Protocol Episode – Brian’s prior episode on team communication strategies.Brian’s TEDx Talk – “Reimagining the Actual Value of Your Time.”Addiction To Social Media & Free Hacks To Fix It – tips aligned with our episode’s app overload and habit-reset themes.Calculate The Specific '$/Hr' Value Of Your Time – linked to our discussion on tool cost vs. value of time.How Many Hours Do You Spend On Social Media? – adds context to Brian’s point about time spent.Subscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to Digital Organization02:12 Understanding Your Digital Life05:01 Strategies for Effective Digital Organization08:10 The Role of AI in Digital Organization10:53 Common Mistakes in Digital Organization13:56 Overcoming Bright Shiny Object Syndrome16:28 The Importance of Writing Things Down19:34 Navigating Fear of Missing Out21:30 Choosing the Right Tools for Organization24:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts28:20 The Importance of Integrated Tools28:40 Avoiding App Overload and Subscription Mistakes30:23 Evaluating the Value of Paid Tools32:37 Mastering Content Management34:46 Tackling Digital Clutter35:44 AI's Impact on Productivity43:17 Creating an Effective Digital Organization Plan46:45 Establishing a Naming Convention48:32 Documenting Important Information for the FutureToday’s GuestJudith GuertinProfessional Organizer, Digital Estate Specialist, Productivity ConsultantJudith Guertin is a certified professional organizer, author, and speaker with over 25 years of experience helping individuals, families, and organizations bring order to their digital and physical worlds. Known for her calm, clear approach, Judith specializes in decluttering overwhelmed systems—whether that’s your inbox, cloud drives, or the vital documents your family may one day need.Her book, Beyond the Estate Plan Guide, equips readers to capture and share essential information so nothing gets lost in life transitions. As the founder of All Ways Organized, Judith guides clients in creating sustainable strategies that keep their digital lives accessible, secure, and easy to maintain.Judith blends deep expertise in productivity tools and estate preparedness with a practical, down-to-earth mindset. She believes that organized systems aren’t just about efficiency—they’re about peace of mind and leaving a legacy of clarity.Connect with Judith: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/judithguertin Website: allwaysorganizedmass.com
Transcribe →Should I Quit Social Media? A Debate With A Focus Expert - Penny Zenker
Jun 3001:00:12Tap to summarizeWhat happens when a productivity expert and a focus coach talk honestly about the role social media plays in our lives?In this episode, Brian sits down with Penny Zenker to have a real conversation about how platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook affect our attention, stress levels, and time. They don’t hold back. Penny admits she’s been thinking about walking away from it altogether. Brian shares his frustration with AI-generated content and the constant noise in his feed.They explore how social media can be both helpful and harmful, and what it means to use it with intention. Penny shares her Reset Mindset framework and talks about how to refocus when life and technology pull you in every direction. They also get into the difference between attention and focus—and why that distinction really matters.You’ll hear laughter, honest disagreement, and some ideas that might just change how you interact with your phone.Want to go deeper? Check out the show notes and resources linked in the episode!References In This EpisodePenny Zenker – pennyskeynote.com(Main website for Penny’s keynotes, workshops, Reset Mindset framework, and booking info)The Reset Mindset Book – Learn MorePenny’s award-winning book that shares practical strategies to help people reset, realign, and refocus in high-stress, high-distraction environments.Penny Zenker’s Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pennyzenkerBrian’s TEDx Talk – “The Value of Your Time” – Watch on YouTube Brian talks about time as our most precious resource, and why being intentional matters more than being busy.Taja.ai – taja.aiThe AI tool that sparked this episode’s debate. It repurposes YouTube videos into social media content—helpful for productivity, but also raises questions about authenticity and noise.Duolingo – duolingo.comMentioned as a smarter way to spend a few minutes on your phone compared to endless scrolling. A reminder that learning something new can be a great way to reset your habits.Screen Time Tools –Apple iOS Screen TimeDigital Wellbeing on AndroidCheck how much time you’re spending on social apps—and decide if that aligns with what matters to you.Productivity Gladiator Blog Post - How Many Hours Do You Spend On Social Media?Productivity Gladiator Blog Post - Addiction To Social Media: Fix It With Apps and Tech HacksProductivity Gladiator Blog Post - Addiction to Social Media & Free Hacks To Fix ItSubscribe to Brian’s email list Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Debate on Social Media04:45 The Impact of Social Media on Productivity07:31 AI's Influence on Social Media Perspectives14:17 Personal Use of Social Media: Should You Quit?25:17 Professional Use of Social Media: The Business Perspective29:40 The Power of Focused Efforts31:34 Building Meaningful Connections36:29 Referrals and Customer Relationships41:08 Assessing Social Media's Value45:17 Recognizing Productivity Killers47:22 Taking Action for Change54:48 The Reset Mindset and Future DirectionsToday’s GuestPenny ZenkerKeynote Speaker, Focus Expert, Productivity StrategistPenny Zenker is an international keynote speaker, bestselling author, and the creator of the Reset Mindset—a practical framework that helps people regain control of their time, energy, and attention. Known as The Focusologist, Penny teaches leaders and teams how to eliminate distractions, reduce stress, and stay aligned with what matters most.With a background as a successful tech entrepreneur and strategic business coach, Penny blends big-picture thinking with tactical insight. Her talks and trainings challenge conventional ideas about productivity and help people shift from busy to intentional. Her TEDx talk, featured by Success Magazine, highlights the power of choice in driving performance.Penny has been featured on major media outlets including NBC News, Forbes, and Inc. She works with global brands, fast-moving teams, and purpose-driven individuals who want to create more focus and less friction in their work and life.Connect with Penny:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pennyzenkerWebsite: pennyskeynote.com
Transcribe →How Hidden Beliefs Are Wrecking Your Productivity - With Rachel Druckenmiller
May 28, 202500:47:07Tap to summarizeIn this eye-opening episode, Brian Nelson-Palmer sits down with Rachel Druckenmiller—keynote speaker, singer-songwriter, and founder of Unmuted—to expose a hidden productivity killer: the quiet, limiting beliefs that shape how we work.Drawing on her own experience with burnout and recovery, Rachel shares how phrases like “I’m not the kind of person who…” silently sabotage high performers—and how reframing identity-based self-talk can shift everything.Listeners will walk away with powerful mindset tools, including Rachel’s go-to reframe question—“What kind of person do I want to be?”—and a deeper understanding of how imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and internal narratives impact productivity.Want to go deeper? Check out the show notes and resources linked in the episode!References In This EpisodeRachel Druckenmiller – racheldruckenmiller.com (Main website for speaking, coaching, music, and blog content)Rachel’s Music on Spotify – Spotify Artist Profile (Listen to original songs like Somebody and her upcoming jazz cover of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”)Brian’s 1st Album with his band FellowcraftThe first song, The West Texas Blues, is his favorite.Brian’s 2nd Album with FellowcraftThe first song, Hold The Line, won the Wammie award for best rock song in 2018. The fifth song, Bartenders & Bourbon, is an epic collaboration if you’re a blues fan! Rachel Druckenmiller on LinkedIn – LinkedIn ProfileRachel’s Social MediaInstagram: @UnmutedLifeFacebook: Unmuted with Rachel DruckenmillerYouTube: Rachel Druckenmiller – Official ChannelBooks and Concepts Referenced:Atomic Habits by James Clear (Referenced for how identity drives habits)Immunity to Change by Lisa Lahey & Robert Kegan(The coaching framework that helped Rachel rewire self-sabotaging beliefs)Dunning-Kruger Effect (Discussed in the episode as it relates to confidence and competence)Subscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to Hidden Beliefs and Self-Talk02:33 Understanding Hidden Beliefs and Their Impact04:48 The Power of Identity Statements07:15 Self-Sabotage and Productivity09:36 Fear and Its Role in Productivity11:53 The Importance of Saying No14:26 Recognizing Mindset vs. Skills Issues16:37 Procrastination as a Mindset Indicator18:57 Rewiring Unhelpful Beliefs21:44 Conclusion and Personal Reflections22:36 The Power of Questions Over Statements24:01 Rediscovering Childhood Wonder and Capability24:48 The Dunning-Kruger Effect and Self-Perception26:15 Embracing New Identities Through Action28:32 The Journey to Becoming a Singer-Songwriter33:10 Claiming Your Identity and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs37:59 Transforming Self-Talk and Identity Questions42:45 Future Aspirations: Music and AuthorshipToday’s GuestRachel DruckenmillerKeynote Speaker, TEDx Speaker, Leadership Trainer, Singer-SongwriterFounder of UnmutedRachel Druckenmiller is a keynote speaker, TEDx presenter, and the founder of Unmuted, a leadership and learning consultancy that helps people tap into greater clarity, confidence, and courage. With nearly two decades of experience, Rachel works with organizations, associations, and teams to amplify purpose, strengths, and impact—starting from the inside out.She’s been recognized by Forbes as a Next1000 honoree, named a “40 Under 40 Game Changer” by Workforce Magazine, and selected by Smart Meetings as a “Best of the Stage” speaker. Whether she’s leading a training or delivering a keynote, Rachel brings a refreshing blend of vulnerability, energy, and practical insight that helps people rethink burnout, rebuild self-belief, and re-engage with work in meaningful ways.Outside of speaking, Rachel is a singer-songwriter with original music streaming on all major platforms and a debut book launching in Fall 2026. She's also a fan of fresh air, unfiltered conversations, and singing Disney songs with full confidence—even in the cereal aisle.Connect with her at: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/racheldruckenmiller Website: racheldruckenmiller.com
Transcribe →