Beyond the To-Do List

Erik Fisher

For more than a decade, Erik Fisher has sat down with productivity experts, authors, and creatives as they share their insights on how to implement productivity strategies in both your professional and personal life. Our goal is to help you gain perspective, practical knowledge, and productivity insights for living a whole life that goes Beyond The To Do List. read less

Our Editor's Take

The host of the Beyond the To-Do List podcast has his own definition of productivity. Erik Fisher believes that it's not about packing more tasks into a day. It also does not correlate with providing better quality work. In his opinion, the term relates to self-management. A productive person knows what needs to get done, what the expectations are and is able to fulfill them. They are intentional with their time and know how to set the right priorities. That is what Fisher hopes to teach the listeners of his podcast.

As a person with ADHD, the podcast host knows a thing or two about productivity. His fascination with the topic started in his high-school days, before he even heard the word for it. Back then, Fisher felt he was intelligent. But he was still a terrible student. He couldn't connect to conventional learning approaches, which made him fail classes. So he decided to try and overcome the traditional system. Using a notebook at the end of the day to analyze his actions, Fisher attempted to create a routine and habits that worked for him. This was before the internet, with no real advice about being efficient.

When the famous book Getting Things Done came out, it only made Fisher more fascinated with the topic. He became obsessed with optimizing his actions to create a better workflow in every aspect of his life. The Beyond the To-Do List podcast was his way to learn more. By interviewing the top professionals in the field every week, he hoped to become an expert in his own life.

Fisher's podcast offers a holistic approach to productivity. He doesn't only speak to business people and organizational coaches. The host interviews professionals in the fields of psychiatry, tech, education, and more. They discuss topics such as stress and anxiety alongside tools to help manage tasks and time. Other subjects include reducing distractions from social media and creating an effective workspace.

Conversations on Beyond the To-Do List contain accessible, actionable advice. New episodes come out on Mondays.

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Episodes

Francesco D’alessio on Finding the Right Productivity Tools for You
Yesterday
Francesco D’alessio on Finding the Right Productivity Tools for You
This week I’m excited to welcome Francesco D’alessio for a really insightful chat about finding the right productivity tools and apps to meet your unique needs. Francesco is the founder of Keep Productive and co-founder of Tool Finder, the world's best place to discover and learn more about productivity tools. Both Keep Productive and Tool Finder aim to make productivity software easier to understand. There is a tool for everything so they create videos and courses to help you match to the perfect productivity tools for you. Tool Finder’s resources are designed to make productivity software easy to grasp and go deeper if you want to. Built on an independent philosophy around reviews and matching people with the perfect tool, Tool Finder is a growing directory, network, and source of knowledge on the ideal productivity software to pick and adopt for your work, family life, or personal time management. Their 120,000+ readers a month gain insight into what apps are best for them, and what features matter and gain real insight into whether the tool is right for them. Tool Finder has reviewed over 750+ productivity apps and constantly updates its database.  In this episode Francesco provides his unique three-part framework on selecting and sticking with productivity apps, emphasizing the importance of research, trial, and optimization. We also discuss the risks of the "shiny object syndrome" and the future of AI's role in productivity tools – a conversation that promises to give you a glimpse into the future of task management. In addition we touch on the importance of 'rules over tools'—a philosophy that prioritizes frameworks and strategies over the apps themselves. This is a vital episode for anyone looking for professional insights on what makes a great productivity tool and where the future of productivity is going. Connect with Francesco: Website YouTube Twitter ______________________________________ Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  ______________________________________ This Podcast is Powered By: Descript Descript 101 Castmagic Ecamm Podpage Rodecaster Pro Top Productivity Books List Make sure to support the show by checking out the sponsors! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Terri Sjodin on Improving Your Presentation Skills and Public Speaking
Mar 11 2024
Terri Sjodin on Improving Your Presentation Skills and Public Speaking
This week I’m excited to welcome Terri Sjodin for a great conversation about her new book, Presentation Ready: Improve Your Sales Presentation Outcomes and Avoid the Twelve Most Common Mistakes. Terri is the Principal and Founder of Sjodin Communications, a public speaking, sales training and consulting firm based in Newport Beach, CA. In addition to her latest book, she is the author of the book, Small Message, Big Impact, which hit the New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal Bestseller Lists. For over 20 years Terri has served as a speaker and consultant to an impressive list of corporations, associations, academic conferences, CEO's and Members of the U.S. Congress. She is a high-content speaker and her style is fresh, sassy and practical. Terri is considered one of the most sought-after sales, communications and speaking consultants in the country. In this episode, we'll unpack the power of preparation in seizing unexpected opportunities and the underestimated influence of body language. Terri shares her insider knowledge on why public speaking should be embraced as a gateway to new horizons, drawing from her rich personal experiences in speech and debate. We discuss the transforming capacity of verbal communication training and how improving presentation skills can dramatically increase professional competency. In addition Terri advises how to lead conversations with potential clients towards a smooth commitment and how to handle responses that aren't outright rejections. Facing the challenge of last-minute presentations, we'll explore Terri's approach to structure, creativity, and credibility. So join us as we delve into techniques to keep your audience captivated and your presentations impactful. Connect with Terri: Website  LinkedIn  _____________________________________ Connect with Erik: LinkedIn Facebook  Instagram Threads ______________________________________ This Podcast is Powered By: Descript Descript 101 Castmagic Ecamm Podpage Rodecaster Pro Top Productivity Books List Make sure to support the show by checking out the sponsors! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Erik Fisher and Todd Bushong on The State of Television Streaming, Regulating Your Media Diet, and Recapturing the Communal Magic of TV & Movies
Mar 4 2024
Erik Fisher and Todd Bushong on The State of Television Streaming, Regulating Your Media Diet, and Recapturing the Communal Magic of TV & Movies
This week I’m excited to welcome my friend and the producer of the podcast Todd Bushong back to the show for a laid back chat about the state of television streaming, regulating our media diet, and recapturing some of the communal magic of movies and television. With the Oscars airing this Sunday it got me thinking about how incredibly different media consumption is in the age of streaming and I wanted to talk with Todd about that topic as well as offer up some tips and tricks for maximizing your dollar during the current streaming wars. In the episode we delve into the complexities and even stress caused by the modern streaming landscape. We discuss some of the anxiety that I’ve been experiencing about missing out on many of the Oscar nominated films this year and why that anxiety might be more common than I thought. Todd and I explore the concept of media anxiety, which stems from the overwhelming number of choices available on streaming platforms and the social pressure to keep up with popular shows and films, especially during awards season. In addition we examine the consequences of a fragmented media culture and consider how podcasts have stepped in to fill the void of communal discussion about media. Throughout the episode, we hope to offer practical advice on managing streaming services and consumption, aiming to reduce decision fatigue while maximizing your down time. Some tips include using physical media, being intentional about what to watch, and creating a shared viewing experience with others. We discuss personalizing streaming services to suit your preferences, such as using accessibility features on Apple TV, how to incorporate media into your routine in a controlled manner, and how a healthy media diet is similar to healthy meal planning.  ________________________________________ Related Episodes: Nick Gray on Building Big Relationships with Small Parties or Gatherings Kendra Adachi on Prioritizing the Things That Matter Ryan McRae on Hygge, Pacing and Rest _________________________________________ Connect with Erik: LinkedIn Facebook  Instagram Threads _________________________________________ This Podcast is Powered By: Descript Descript 101 Castmagic Ecamm Podpage Rodecaster Pro Top Productivity Books List Make sure to support the show by checking out the sponsors! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jeff Sieh on Repurposing Your Audio & Video Content to Reach a Larger Audience
Feb 26 2024
Jeff Sieh on Repurposing Your Audio & Video Content to Reach a Larger Audience
This week I’m excited to welcome my friend Jeff Sieh back to the show to continue a chat we recently had surrounding creativity, repurposing, and how AI and technology can help us reach our goals. In the previous portion of this conversation Jeff and I discussed creativity in the context of building your business. This week we pivot to the art of repurposing, remixing, and repackaging your audio, video, or creative content to reach larger untapped audiences or markets.  Jeff is an international speaker and visual marketing consultant. He hosts the Social Media News Live show and podcast and is also “Head Beard” at Manly Pinterest Tips. Jeff has worked with and produced a wide range of content for various companies, including Guy Kawasaki, Kim Garst, Social Media Examiner, and Tailwind. In this chat Jeff shares his expertise on repurposing pillar content for different platforms and formats, offering valuable insights into leveraging technology and tools to maximize content reach. From the Amazon Influencer program to the importance of repurposing live content, Jeff and I explore strategies to extend content lifespan and engage diverse audiences. We also discuss the significance of catering to different audience preferences and utilizing tools such as Descript for text-based editing and content analysis. Don't miss out on Jeff’s valuable insights into expanding your reach and growing your brand.  _____________________________________ Connect with Jeff: Links  Descript 101 Social Media News Live _____________________________________ Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Facebook  Instagram  _____________________________________ This podcast is powered by: Descript  Podpage  Castmagic Ecamm Rodecaster Pro Top Productivity Books List Make sure to support the show by checking out the sponsors! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Charles Duhigg on the Super Power of Clear Communication at Home and Work
Feb 20 2024
Charles Duhigg on the Super Power of Clear Communication at Home and Work
This week it's my privilege to welcome Charles Duhigg to the show for a fascinating and engaging conversion about his brand new book, Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection. Charles is a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter and the author of two previous books, “The Power of Habit” and “Smarter Faster Better.” Charles has been featured on “This American Life,” NPR, “The Colbert Report,” PBS’s “NewsHour,” and “Frontline.”Duhigg, who previously wrote for the New York Times, was part of the team there that won the 2013 Pulitzer Prize in explanatory journalism for “The iEconomy,” a series that examined the global economy through the lens of Apple. In this conversation, Charles shares the power of clear communication, the significance of aligning conversations to better connect, and how the simple act of writing down meeting goals can lead to impactful communication. We explore not just the different types of conversations – practical, emotional, and social – but also the importance of asking deep questions that invite people to reveal their values and beliefs. Whether you're looking to enhance your personal relationships, foster a collaborative team environment, or simply want to become a more effective communicator in a world crowded with communication channels, this episode will help guide you towards more meaningful connections. ________________________________________ Related Episodes & Fun Intro Link: Charles Duhigg on Peak Productivity and Becoming Smarter, Faster and Better “Darmok” - Star Trek: The Next Generation Connect with Charles: Website Book Twitter LinkedIn Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  This Podcast Is Powered By: Descript 101 Castmagic Ecamm Podpage Rodecaster Pro Top Productivity Books List Make sure to support the show by checking out the sponsors! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dr. Charan Ranganath on the Myths Surrounding Our Memory and the Power of Remembering Better, Not More
Feb 12 2024
Dr. Charan Ranganath on the Myths Surrounding Our Memory and the Power of Remembering Better, Not More
This week it’s my privilege to welcome Dr. Charan Ranganath to the show for a fascinating discussion about his new book, Why We Remember: Unlocking Memory's Power to Hold on to What Matters. Charan is a Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience and director of the Dynamic Memory Lab at the University of California at Davis. For over 25 years, he has studied the mechanisms in the brain that allow us to remember past events, using brain imaging techniques, computational modeling and studies of patients with memory disorders. In this episode we uncover the malleability of memory and discuss practical strategies for not just remembering more, but remembering better. Charan guides listeners through the science of memory preservation and the critical role of sleep in processing and retaining our experiences, and more importantly turning the memories of those experiences into Charan also discusses the brain's dopaminergic pathways and how intentional distractions can hamper our performance.  In addition, we touch upon how lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress can affect our cognitive abilities and explore the concept of error-driven learning—why struggling to recall might actually be good for us. So join us as Charan challenges cultural myths about brain usage and busts the notions of effective multitasking and magic techniques for developing a perfect memory. ________________________________________ Related Episodes: Jonathan Levi on Learning, Speed Reading and Memory Palaces Gretchen Rubin on Discovering How To Live Life In Five Senses ________________________________________ Connect with Dr. Charan: Website Instagram Book LinkedIn ________________________________________ Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Facebook  Instagram and Threads ________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Richard Medcalf on Boosting Your Productivity by Making Time for Better Strategy
Feb 5 2024
Richard Medcalf on Boosting Your Productivity by Making Time for Better Strategy
This week it was my pleasure to welcome Richard Medcalf to the show for a discussion about his book, Making Time for Strategy: How to Be Less Busy and More Successful. Richard describes himself as "what you get if you were to put a McKinsey consultant, a slightly unorthodox pastor and an entrepreneur into a blender". He is the founder of Xquadrant, which helps elite leaders reinvent their 'success formula' and multiply their impact. His personal clients include CEOs of billion-dollar corporations, successful serial entrepreneurs, and the founders of tech 'unicorns'.  Richard has advised the C-Suite for over 25 years. After a Masters at Oxford University, where he came top in his year, he joined a premier strategy consultancy and later became the youngest-ever Partner. He then spent 11 years at tech giant Cisco in an elite team reporting to the CEO. In this episode, we uncover the power of strategic leadership, time allocation, and the impact of energizing activities on productivity. Richard shares real client success stories and practical tactics to move beyond mere task management and into deep strategic thinking. In addition, Richard and I explore the pitfalls of being overwhelmed by daily tasks, the transformative power of taking time for rest and reflection, and the shift from task orientation to strategic planning. Richard offers listeners practical insights and actionable tactics to guide you towards more effective time management and lasting success. ________________________________________ Connect with Richard: Website Book Free Assessment & Resources LinkedIn Twitter ________________________________________ Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Facebook  Instagram and Threads ________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jeff Sieh on Tools and Techniques for Harnessing Your Creativity at Work and Beyond
Jan 29 2024
Jeff Sieh on Tools and Techniques for Harnessing Your Creativity at Work and Beyond
This week I’m excited to welcome my friend Jeff Sieh back to the show for a great chat about harnessing our creative potential while fostering creative gifts for your business. Jeff is an international speaker and visual marketing consultant. He hosts the Social Media News Live show and podcast and is also “Head Beard” at Manly Pinterest Tips. Jeff has worked with and produced a wide range of content for various companies, including Guy Kawasaki, Kim Garst, Social Media Examiner, and Tailwind. In this conversation Jeff shares his insights on defining creativity in the context of business building and creation. He emphasizes the importance of fostering curiosity, cultivating diverse inputs, while also seeking input from others to inspire creativity. Jeff also shares his system for capturing and organizing ideas, using tools like Tiago Forte's Building a Second Brain and the PARA system. To help you stay focused and centered, we also discuss creative rituals, including journaling and using tools like the Pomodoro technique. In addition we delve into the benefits of napping for creativity and productivity, and share tips for effective napping routines. From the significance of humor and laughter in enhancing creativity and productivity to the importance of seeking creative stimulus from various sources, this episode is packed with actionable advice to ignite your creative spark. So, whether you're feeling stuck with ideas or overwhelmed by the multitude of them, Jeff’s insights on trying and failing often, moving quickly with ideas that gain traction, and changing environments to spark creativity will help you break through those barriers. ____________________________________ Creatives and Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Jeff Goins - Real Artists Don't Starve  Creativity Inc  Duncan Wardle  Julia Cameron  Artist's Dates Morning Pages  Tiago Forte - Building A Second Brain  Arriana Huffington - The Sleep Revolution  Brain.fm  ____________________________________ Connect with Jeff: Website Social Media News Live Instagram Twitter LinkedIn _____________________________________ Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  _____________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Todd Henry on Forming the Habit of Bravery and Developing Courageous Leadership
Jan 22 2024
Todd Henry on Forming the Habit of Bravery and Developing Courageous Leadership
This week I’m excited to welcome Todd Henry back to the show for a really encouraging and informative conversation about his new book, The Brave Habit: A Guide To Courageous Leadership. Todd has been a guest on the show many times lending his wisdom and insights on everything from creativity to motivation.  Todd is the founder of Accidental Creative, a company that helps creative people and teams be prolific, brilliant and healthy. He regularly speaks and consults with companies about how to develop practices that lead to everyday brilliance. He is the author of six other books (The Accidental Creative, Die Empty, Louder Than Words, Herding Tigers, The Motivation Code, and Daily Creative), which have been translated into more than a dozen languages, and he speaks and consults across dozens of industries on creativity, leadership, and passion for work. In this episode Todd breaks down the unique distinctions between bravery and heroism, the importance of claiming agency, and the application of the brave habit to daily work and team dynamics. Todd also shares personal insights, including his journey in redefining his 18-year-old business, and highlighting the need for an optimistic vision in uncertain times. We discuss how to cultivate bravery as a daily habit and the process of leading yourself and others boldly into the future.  Connect with Todd: Website Todd’s New Book Instagram LinkedIn ______________________________________ Todd’s Episode on The Daily Practice of Creativity ______________________________________ Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  _______________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dave Delaney on Living and Thriving with Adult ADHD
Jan 15 2024
Dave Delaney on Living and Thriving with Adult ADHD
This week I’m excited to welcome Dave Delaney back to the show for a great conversation about sobriety, living and thriving with ADHD, and helping others to equip themselves with the tools they need to excel. Dave is a recognized leader, consultant and keynote speaker on digital marketing, social media strategy, and business networking. His book, New Business Networking and his Newsletter The Nice Maker are invaluable tools for marketers and anyone working in the social media space.  In this episode Dave openly shares his personal experiences and challenges related to his recent ADHD diagnosis at the age of 50, shedding light on the complexities of acknowledging and understanding the impact of the condition as an adult. The conversation revolves around Dave's journey of realization, coping mechanisms, and the potential comorbidities associated with ADHD. Erik also adds his perspective, having been diagnosed with ADHD in 2005, and discusses the difficulties of accepting the diagnosis as an adult. In addition Dave and Erik delve into the unique challenges faced by individuals with ADHD, including the oft-overlooked aspects of this condition. From the various manifestations of ADHD to the journey of understanding the diagnosis, Erik and Dave share personal experiences and professional insights relating to ADHD. Join us as we explore strategies for coping with overwhelming factors of the condition, the significance of seeking professional help and treatment, and the importance of education and community in navigating life with ADHD. Connect with Dave: Website Wise Squirrels  Book Newsletter  LinkedIn _______________________________________________ Additional Resources: Wise Squirrel’s ADHD Assessment Dave’s Beyond The To Do List Appearance on Networking Dr. Russel Barkley Tamara Rosier ______________________________________________ Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  ______________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mailbag Special on Self Awareness, Sleep and Early Rising, Better Communication with Co-Workers and More
Jan 8 2024
Mailbag Special on Self Awareness, Sleep and Early Rising, Better Communication with Co-Workers and More
This week I’m excited to welcome the show’s producer and editor Todd Bushong for our first ever mailbag episode. I put the call out for questions you the listeners might have about productivity, workflow, or anything Beyond The To-Do List related and you responded. So in this special episode I’m happy to get the chance to dive into your questions and address some of your inquiries about everything from my go-to Ai productivity tool, getting better sleep, knowing when to delegate tasks and so much more.  This was a really fun episode for both Todd and I to get the chance to hear from you the listeners about what has been on your mind concerning your productivity and work life. We plan on continuing to feature more mailbags in the near future so if you have any questions you would like to ask simply go to beyondthetodolist.com/contact to submit your questions for a future mailbag episode! Tools and Prior Episodes Mentioned In the Mailbag: Castmagic Castmagic is an AI tool designed to transform audio content into ready-to-use assets. This innovative and powerful tool AI tool is for long-form audio and video content and podcasts. By simply uploading an MP3 file, users can obtain transcripts, notes, summaries, highlights, quotes, social media posts and much more. Great for anyone creating or working with creating materials.  Pub Crawl Episode Nir Eyal - Indestractible Michael Brues - Chronotype Connect with Erik: Submit Your Question for the Mailbag Episode LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  ________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Revisiting My Conversation with Carlos Whittaker on Sharing Life Beyond Our Differences
Jan 1 2024
Revisiting My Conversation with Carlos Whittaker on Sharing Life Beyond Our Differences
To ring in 2024 I’m excited to revisit an incredibly encouraging and human conversation I had with Carlos Whittaker earlier in 2023. More often than not “productivity minded” people can place too much emphasis on the weeks leading up to and the first few weeks of the New Year. I wanted to reverse that trend and focus on a conversation that reminds us of the importance of human connections and deep relationships in creating a life of contentment and true fulfillment. In this conversation Carlos and I talk about his latest book, How to Human: Three Ways to Share Life Beyond What Distracts, Divides, and Disconnects Us. Carlos is an author, podcaster, and global speaker who I’ve had the privilege of learning from in live settings and through his podcast Human Hope with Carlos Whittaker.  In How to Human, Carlos offers a fresh vision for becoming the best versions of ourselves. We can refuse to let disagreements define us. We can say no to becoming upset, rage-filled humans and say yes to fuller, happier lives. It begins as we make the shift from “me” to “we” to “everybody” in a three-part journey to be human, see fellow humans, and free those around us. This conversation was a real inspiration for me as Carlos and I unpacked the themes and messages of his book. Carlos reminds listeners that it's more powerful to not stand on issues, but to walk with people. That journey of discovering the true value of relationships and the beauty and hope that bind us together rather than focusing on the polarizing divisions is a message I'm so excited for listeners to explore further in this episode. Connect With Carlos: Website Podcast Instagram Connect with Erik: Submit Your Question for the Mailbag Episode LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  ________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Revisiting My Conversation with Gretchen Rubin on Discovering How To Live Life In Five Senses
Dec 25 2023
Revisiting My Conversation with Gretchen Rubin on Discovering How To Live Life In Five Senses
As we wrap up 2023 I wanted to revisit a few conversations over the next two weeks that impacted me most this past year. This week I’m delighted to revisit a really powerful talk with author and podcaster Gretchen Rubin. The Holiday and New Years season can bring with it a good deal of stress and anxiety and this conversation reminds us of the importance of stepping outside our everyday anxieties by truly connecting with nature, our bodies, and the world around us. In this chat we unpack many of the principles contained within her book, Life in Five Senses: How Exploring the Senses Got Me Out of My Head and Into the World.  In LIFE IN FIVE SENSES Gretchen’s revelatory journey of self-experimentation, she explores the mysteries and joys of the five senses as a path to a happier, more mindful life. Drawing on cutting-edge science, philosophy, literature, and her own efforts to practice what she learns, she investigates the profound power of tuning into the physical world. From the simple pleasures of appreciating the magic of ketchup and adding favorite songs to a playlist, to more adventurous efforts like creating a daily ritual of visiting the Met and trying ayahuasca, Rubin shows us how to experience each day with depth, delight, and connection. In the rush of daily life, she finds, our five senses offer us an immediate, sustainable way to cheer up, calm down, and engage the world around us—as well as a way to glimpse the soul and touch the transcendent.  Gretchen Rubin is one of today’s most influential observers of happiness and human nature. She’s the author of many books, including the blockbuster New York Times bestsellers Outer Order, Inner Calm; The Four Tendencies; Better Than Before; and The Happiness Project. Her books have sold more than 3.5 million copies worldwide, in more than thirty languages. She hosts the top-ranking, award-winning podcast “Happier with Gretchen Rubin,” where she explores practical solutions for living a happier life. Raised in Kansas City, she lives in New York City with her husband and two daughters. Check Out Gretchen’s Previous Episode  Connect with Gretchen: Website Book Podcast LinkedIn Connect with Erik: Submit Your Question for the Mailbag Episode LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  ________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Charlie Gilkey on Improving Team Habits and Creating a Better Work Environment
Dec 18 2023
Charlie Gilkey on Improving Team Habits and Creating a Better Work Environment
This week I was excited to welcome Charlie Gilkey back to the show to talk about his latest book, Team Habits: How Small Actions Lead to Extraordinary Results. Charlie has been on the show before to discuss his previous book Start Finishing: How to Go from Idea to Done. He is the founder of Productive Flourishing, a company that helps professional creatives, leaders, and changemakers take meaningful action on work that matters. He is internationally known as a thought leader on productivity, planning, strategy, and leadership for creative people. Charlie is also the author of The Small Business Life Cycle, and is widely cited in outlets such as Inc., Time, Forbes, the Guardian, Lifehacker, and more. He’s also an Army veteran and near-PhD in philosophy. In this conversation, Charlie shares his insights on the power of teamwork and discusses his new book, presenting a fresh perspective on improving team productivity. We discuss the importance of team dynamics to overcome challenges and mistakes addressing the significance of individual and team communication habits in enhancing productivity and performance. We also discuss the impact that small issues can have within a team, highlighting the downstream effects of broken systems on morale and camaraderie. Charlie points out the impact of adding new team members and the need to focus on improving team habits rather than changing individual team members. This is a great talk for anyone who may be struggling to find practical strategies for creating a better working environment. We discuss finding ways to improve team meetings and addressing small problems that lead to inefficiencies while also focusing on how we can be more humane and understanding with our co-workers while continuing to maintain high standards. As we head into the New Year this chat and of course Charlie’s book are great guides to get teams thinking about better communication, improved habits, and most importantly more enjoyable and productive work days in 2024.  Connect with Charlie: Better Team Habits Productive Flourishing Charlie’s Previous Episode Book LinkedIn Twitter Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter Submit a Question For Our Mailbag Episode LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  ________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Gillian Tietz on The Power of Sobriety and Navigating Dry January
Dec 11 2023
Gillian Tietz on The Power of Sobriety and Navigating Dry January
This week I was excited to speak with Gillian Tietz. Gillian is a biochemist, educator, and entrepreneur who, after struggling with alcohol moderation, found productivity and success in sobriety. Gillian is the host of the Sober Powered Podcast and works as a biochemist in the Boston area. When she quit drinking in 2019, she dedicated herself to learning about alcohol's influence on the brain and how it can cause addiction. In this episode, Gillian shares her personal journey of realizing the negative impact of drinking on her productivity and confidence, and how sobriety has led to numerous accomplishments. The conversation explores the physiological and psychological effects of alcohol, the importance of self-awareness, and the potential benefits of taking breaks from both alcohol and caffeine.  Gillian also shares resources for those interested in exploring sobriety further while breaking down the benefits and drawbacks of the popular “Dry January” craze that has become extremely popular amongst young professionals. The episode concludes with Gillian and I reflecting on personal habits and making informed decisions for a healthier future.  Make sure to check out our sponsors to help support the show! Connect with Gillian: Website  Podcast Instagram  LinkedIn  Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  ________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Josefine Campbell on How to Manage Personal Energy Levels for Business Success
Dec 4 2023
Josefine Campbell on How to Manage Personal Energy Levels for Business Success
This week I was excited to speak with Josefine Campbell about her new book, Power Barometer: How to Manage Personal Energy for Business Success. Josefine is the founder of Campbell Co, a top leadership consulting firm for multinational companies. Campbell inspires and coaches leaders, teams, and talents in large organizations such as McDonald's, Deloitte, Maersk, Novo Nordisk, and Carlsberg Group. Her approach combines the practical and the pragmatic. A four-time jiu-jitsu champion, she is particularly interested in developing personal leadership in difficult circumstances, such as is often the case in modern work life. Throughout this episode we delve into several key topics, including the innovative "Power Parameter" check-in, the normalization of energy awareness in the workplace, and the practical application of the "awareness matrix" for effective energy management. This conversation promises to offer expert insights, actionable strategies, and tools to revolutionize your approach to productivity through personalized energy management.  This time of year can be particularly challenging when it comes to managing our energy levels! Josefine and her book offer an array of insights on how we can not only be more aware of our personal energy management load but also how leaders can design and implement more energy efficient meetings and workplaces to both increase productivity and balance work loads. This is the perfect episode for anyone who is struggling to get their energy levels balanced while also looking for tips and strategies for developing a healthier and more transparent workplace both in the office and remotely. Make sure to check out our sponsors to help support the show! Connect with Josefine: Website Book LinkedIn Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  ________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Susan Drumm on The Power of Music to Transform Your Leadership
Nov 27 2023
Susan Drumm on The Power of Music to Transform Your Leadership
This week it was my privilege to welcome Susan Drumm for a conversation about her new book, The Leader’s Playlist: Unleash the Power of Music and Neuroscience to Transform Your Leadership and Your Life. In this episode Susan unveils the groundbreaking process that outlines how our childhood wounds show up in our ability to lead others and how music can heal those wounds. Maybe you’re having a hard time retaining or engaging your people, or perhaps you’re feeling burnout or can’t delegate or trust your team to deliver. These problems and other leadership challenges can be addressed by shifting how you show up as a leader, and music is the catalyst. Susan also shares her incredible insights on the powerful connection between music, neuroscience, leadership, and personal development. She has mastered the art of pattern recognition and has developed a unique process that harnesses the transformative power of music to help leaders break free from unproductive patterns and thrive in their businesses.  In addition Susan reveals how music primes the brain for change, the impact of music on emotions and thought patterns, and even shares her personal journey of using music to shift her own mindset. Susan takes us through step-by-step instructions on creating an empowered playlist and offers valuable tips for leaders looking to ignite positive change within themselves and their teams. Join us as we dive deep into the world of music and its untapped potential to create profound change.  Make sure to check out our sponsors to help support the show! Connect with Susan: Website Book Leadership Quiz LinkedIn ________________________________________ Erik’s Guest Appearance on the Enhance Your Life With Music Podcast ________________________________________ Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  ________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Marc Lesser on Finding Clarity and Compassionate Accountability at Work and Beyond
Nov 20 2023
Marc Lesser on Finding Clarity and Compassionate Accountability at Work and Beyond
This week I was excited to speak with Marc Lesser. Marc is a renowned speaker, facilitator, workshop leader, and executive coach. He specializes in integrating mindfulness and emotional intelligence into his presentations and training sessions. Marc is the author of five books, including his latest Finding Clarity: How Compassionate Accountability Builds Vibrant Relationships, Thriving Workplaces, and Meaningful Lives. He serves as the CEO of ZBA Associates, a firm focused on executive development and leadership consulting. His podcast, Zen Bones: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Times, offers insightful interviews and mindfulness practices aimed at personal development and organizational influence. Marc is here to share his wisdom and insights on the power of communication, compassion, and accountability in our lives and work. He challenges us to question our assumptions, engage in difficult conversations, and create both a work and personal culture that fosters both compassion and truth. From his experience in running a Zen monastery kitchen to working with Google engineers, Marc has a unique perspective on leadership, emotional intelligence, and the importance of listening. This was a really insightful conversation about how to both reclaim agency in the workplace and how we can begin asking the hard questions of ourselves and our employers. If you or anyone you know has been struggling with finding a degree of clarity and accountability at work or in your personal life this episode offers immense insights and reflections on how you can begin to start that process and start feeling more empowered while finding deeper meaning and agency in your life.  Check out our sponsors to help support the show! Connect with Marc: Website  Book Podcast Linkedin  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  ________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
William Vanderbloemen on 12 Habits that Separate the Best Leaders from the Rest
Nov 13 2023
William Vanderbloemen on 12 Habits that Separate the Best Leaders from the Rest
This week I’m excited to bring you a conversation I had with William Vanerbloemen. William is the CEO and founder of Vanerbloemen a leading executive search firm that serves teams with a greater purpose by aligning their people solutions for growth through executive search, compensation, succession, and diversity consulting. William is also the author of Be the Unicorn: 12 Data-Driven Habits that Separate the Best Leaders from the Rest.  In this conversation he unveils the surprising and learnable skills that make individuals shine. These habits form a roadmap for developing the sought-after abilities that are consistent among the most talented individuals. "Be the Unicorn" symbolizes the unique and standout qualities discussed in the book, offering a field guide for those looking to level up. In addition William sheds light on the importance of self-awareness as the starting point in the journey of personal development while stressing the ongoing nature of self-awareness and its relevance in job interviews, productivity mastery, and personal development.  We also touch on the impact of AI on the job market, emphasizing how human skills will continue to be crucial, outlasting any innovations or technology on the horizon. William highlights the enduring value of human touch in the workplace, making a compelling case for the learning and nurturing of soft skills. Whether you're navigating a job interview, striving for personal growth, or aiming to stand out from the crowd, this episode offers invaluable wisdom for your journey. Make sure to check out our sponsors to help support the show! Connect with William: Website  Book  Resources Linkedin  Twitter  Instagram  Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  ________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Nick Gray on Building Big Relationships with Small Parties or Gatherings
Nov 6 2023
Nick Gray on Building Big Relationships with Small Parties or Gatherings
This week I was excited to welcome Nick Gray for a really fun conversation about how hosting small parties and gatherings can open the doors for so many networking and business relationships in fun and unexpected ways. Nick is the author of the new book The 2-Hour Cocktail Party: How to Build Big Relationships with Small Gatherings. Nick is a renowned party host and the mastermind behind countless successful gatherings. He believes that hosting parties is a powerful way to bring people together from different backgrounds and foster networking opportunities. In our conversation Nick shares his expertise on structuring events, organizing icebreaker activities, and encouraging networking. Nick also reveals the formula and structure he employs to attract diverse attendees and create an environment for engaging conversations. Many people feel the need to have a specific purpose for hosting a party, but Gray asserts that the act of hosting itself is reason enough. And you might be surprised by just how many people are excited to attend! By following his comprehensive N.I.C.K. Party system you'll gain the confidence to engage and participate effectively.  In addition Nick challenges the notion that you need to venture outside your home to reap the benefits of networking and socializing. Whether you identify as an introvert or an extrovert, he stresses the importance of human connection and networking for personal and career growth. So let’s explore different types of parties as a starting point for meaningful possibilities and conversations. From casual meetups to more specialized themed events, discover how hosting can open doors and lead to unexpected opportunities. Make sure to check out our sponsors to help support the show! Connect with Nick:  Website  Linkedin  Twitter  Instagram  Helpful Tips for Your Party: How to Introduce Two People via Email: Sample Scripts 9 Career Day Speech and Presentation Ideas Party Times: Start, End, & Best Times Icebreaker Name Tags: Examples and How to Do It RIGHT How to Host an Event: Parties & Networking Where to Throw a Party? Ideas and Venues for 2023 Icebreaker Activities for Your Next Event Friendship Recession Website 7 Small Trade Show Booth Ideas for 2023 Connect with Erik: Sign Up For Our Newsletter LinkedIn  Twitter  Facebook  Instagram  ________________________________________ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices