A Productive Conversation Mike Vardy

In this episode from September of 2014, David Sparks, fondly known as "MacSparky," joins the conversation to reminisce about the evolving landscape of task management since we last met at Macworld. Dive into the fascinating world of productivity apps, the significance of establishing efficient systems, and the therapeutic benefits of journaling – and take note of what's changed (and what hasn't in the 9 years since I first aired this productive conversation.
Key Discussion Points

The Changing Landscape of Productivity

The "Gold Rush" for Email Apps

Balancing Work-Life as a Lawyer (Note: David stopped practicing law in 2022.)

The Internet's Repetitive Nature

The Benefits of Systems and Tools

The Therapeutic Power of Journaling

Embracing Journaling in Daily Routines


David's insights underline the pivotal role of systems, tools, and journaling in navigating today's bustling professional environment. Whether you're a productivity aficionado or someone looking for balance, this episode promises actionable wisdom.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with David: Website | Mastodon | Instagram


MacSparky Labs: Join here


My Appearance on Focused: Listen here


Our Conversation on Mac Power Users: Listen here


Related Conversation: Episode 409: Luke Burgis talks about Wanting, Journaling, and Fulfillment


Related Blog Post: Why You Need To Review (And How To Make It Easier To Do)



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In this episode I'm joined by Mark Mears, the founder and chief growth officer for L.E.A.F. Growth Ventures. A visionary business leader, he's been recognized as a #1 best-selling author, a keynote speaker, and an invaluable consultant.
During our conversation, we dive deep into the "purposeful growth revolution", understanding how one can grow from a leader into a legacy builder. Mark's insights draw from a deeply personal journey, punctuated by an epiphany involving a fig tree, giving him a fresh perspective on leadership.
Key Discussion Points


Fulfillment vs. Productivity: A deep dive into measuring fulfillment, especially when numbers typically drive understanding


Creating a Community of Belonging: The essence of true diversity, equity, and inclusion is making every individual feel a genuine sense of belonging


Leadership as the Seed: How leadership is foundational, akin to the root system of an oak tree


Productivity vs. Productiveness: Exploring the delicate balance in productivity and understanding the concept through the metaphor of a weed vs a tree


Turnkey Approach in Business: The differences between 'turnkey' and 'in and out' approaches, with real-world examples like Costco


Slowing Down to Speed Up: Embracing curiosity and the wisdom behind "Go slow to go fast"


Mark has shared a holistic perspective on leadership, driving home the importance of purposeful growth. From understanding productivity to forming genuine communities in the workplace, Mark's insights are grounded in his own experiences and learnings. Remember, the journey from leader to legacy builder isn't about authority – it's about influence, service, and purpose.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Mark: Website | LinkedIn


The Book We Discussed: The Purposeful Growth Revolution: 4 Ways to Grow from Leader to Legacy Builder


Take Mark's FREE Assessment: Click here to get started


My Article On Productiveness in Simplify Magazine: Check out this issue (Click here to get 50% off a lifetime subscription)

Related Conversation: Episode 394: Kristoffer Carter talks about Permission, Purpose and Fear


Related Blog Post: Move Slow and “Bake” Things



Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.
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This week's episode features the insightful and dynamic Jon Acuff. Over the years, Jon has penned numerous books, with "All It Takes Is A Goal" being his ninth venture into sharing his wisdom with readers. Throughout this episode, Jon delves deep into the secrets of unlocking one's potential, the importance of goal setting, and how his writings resonate with readers, including teenagers seeking a transformative change in their lives.
Jon's journey with his books is unique. He tackles a challenge in his life, addresses it head-on, and then documents it, aiming to assist others facing similar challenges. This episode shines a light on his approach, thoughts on comfort zones, and the essence of truly valuable goals.
Key Discussion Points

The Value of Goal Setting

The Factors Keeping Us Stuck

The Human Drive to Achieve

The Significance of Guaranteed Goals

Deliberate Goal Setting

Breaking Goals into Steps


This conversation emphasizes the power of perseverance, the magic of setting realistic goals, and the transformative effect they can have on one's life. As Jon eloquently puts it, sometimes all it takes is a goal. Whether you're looking for strategies to overcome complacency, techniques to break down grand visions into achievable steps, or just need a spark of inspiration, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Jon: Website | Facebook | Instagram | X/Twitter


The Book We Discussed: All It Takes Is A Goal: The 3-Step Plan to Ditch Regret and Tap Into Your Massive Potential


Jon's Own Podcast: Check It Out Here


Related Conversation: Episode 162: Finish with Jon Acuff


Related Blog Post: How to Take a “Time Tour”



Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.
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You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
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In this episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the nuances of workplace bias with none other than Andrea Kramer and Alton Harris. Married to each other, Andie and Al are not just partners in life but also co-authors of the enlightening "Beyond Bias: The PATH to End Gender Inequality at Work" which was published on May 16, 2023. Their commitment to addressing gender bias doesn't stop at the written word. For several decades, through various platforms including speaking engagements, workshops, articles, blogs, podcasts, one-on-one counselling, and collaborations with national and international business and professional organizations, they have passionately tackled the omnipresent issue of gender bias in the workplace. With notable appearances in publications like The New York Times, Harvard Business Review, The Wall Street Journal, and Forbes (to name a few) they have consistently provided practical techniques for individuals and organizations to counteract the gender stereotypes and biases that threaten women's career advancements.
We delve into various topics, including the challenges of introducing oneself, the effects of bias on productivity, and practical ways to make workplaces more equitable and fair. Throughout the discussion, listeners will gain a fresh perspective on gender issues and the subtle biases that influence our day-to-day interactions.
Key Discussion Points

Introduction Dynamics: The complexity of dual introductions and a peek into the book "Beyond Bias".

Understanding Workplace Bias: Exploring the influence of bias on productivity, the presumption that an organization is not functioning efficiently, and the essence of their two prior books on gender bias.

Steps Beyond the Bias: How to eliminate exclusionary behavior, the significance of small gestures, and the role of meta-leadership.

Preventing Complacency: The importance of embedding the focus on eliminating bias within other core workplace objectives.

The Path to Change: Discussing the shortcomings of organizational efforts towards diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice, and practical methods to make personnel decisions bias-resistant.

Addressing Bias in Hiring: The necessity of bias guardrails during hiring, making hiring more equitable, and challenges surrounding remote work and its gender implications.

Home Inequality as a Workplace Issue: Recognizing gender inequality in domestic settings, the dire need for flexible time schedules, and extended support for parental leaves.


As we wrap up this enlightening episode with Andrea and Alton, it's evident that the journey to end gender inequality in the workplace requires both self-awareness and collective effort. From understanding the underlying biases to implementing actionable steps, there's a lot that we can do, both as individuals and organizations. Thanks for tuning in.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Andrea and Alton: Website | LinkedIn | YouTube


The Book We Discussed: Beyond Bias: The PATH to End Gender Inequality at Work


Read: How to Design Workplace Systems That Work for Everyone


Related Conversation: Episode 458: Alan Henry talks about new work rules for the marginalized



Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher
You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
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Welcome to this special revisit of my conversation with Charlie Gilkey. Originally broadcast in September 2019, Charlie shares insights into the world of productivity, how to manage projects, both in work and life, and the intricate process he underwent while writing his book.
Key Discussion Points

Time Management and Seasonal Productivity: How the nature of summer, with its longest days and home-bound children, affects our productivity. The art of pacing oneself to maintain consistent work momentum.

Project Momentum: The principle of the five projects rule, maintaining focus, and the art of intentionality. The essential questions for adaptation and discernment, and a practical trick to list and complete three main tasks a day.

Life vs. Work Projects: Exploring the concept of life projects and the psychological struggles tied to initiating and completing them. The value of looking at all tasks, no matter how mundane, as projects.

The Closet of Doom: The emotional hurdles that many face when starting a project, the importance of project completion, and the mastery that comes with finishing.

Writing a Productivity Book: Insights into Charlie's writing process, collaborations with colleagues like yours truly, James Clear, Seth Godin, and others. The battle of dedication that went into the creation of the book.

Emotion and Logic Harmony: The balance between emotion and logic in storytelling and its significance. Navigating through emotional challenges to maintain story cohesion.


With advice that is both practical and profound, Charlie's insights can serve as guidance for anyone navigating their projects, be it in life or work. Don't forget to pick up his book, "Start Finishing: How to Go From Idea to Done", available from any bookseller.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect With Charlie/Productive Flourishing: Website | YouTube | X (née Twitter) | LinkedIn


The Book We Discussed: Start Finishing: How to Go from Idea to Done


Another Productive Conversation With Charlie: Watch On My YouTube Channel


Related Conversation: Episode 127: A Focus on Flourishing with Charlie Gilkey


Related Blog Post: How To Find Your Way Forward (And Finish)



Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher
You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I have the privilege of conversing with Constance Dierickx, Ph.D., famously known as The Decision Doctor®.
A trusted advisor to boards and senior executives, Constance has lent her expertise to leaders across dozens of industries on five continents. With a proven track record of aiding leaders in increasing revenue, mastering top-level transitions, enabling strategic pivots, and ensuring M&A successes at a rate 400% above the average, she is undeniably at the top of her field.
During our discussion we dive deep into the insights from her latest book, "Meta-Leadership: How to See What Others Don't and Make Great Decisions." This book introduces the concept of Meta-Leadership, a groundbreaking paradigm designed to reshape how leaders think, harness emotions effectively, and take wise actions.
Key Discussion Points

Dichotomous Thinking and Recognizing Mistakes: Dive into the complexities of black and white thinking and its constraints. Explore why leaders possess an exceptional ability to synthesize and perceive beyond the apparent. Delve into the distinction between being a leader and a manager.

The Three Dimensions of Leadership: Discover the core elements of leadership: thinking, emotion, and behavior, all grounded in science. Understand the reasons behind the selection of these dimensions and their influence on leadership potential.

Shortcuts, Uncertainty, and Decision-making: Unpack how our inherent desire to alleviate uncertainty drives us to develop mental shortcuts. Explore their advantages and potential pitfalls, supplemented by insights from Daniel Kahneman's "Thinking Fast and Slow."


The Ice Cream Factor and the Power of Novelty: Discuss the merits and downsides of routine vs novelty in our daily choices. Emphasize the importance of adaptability and flexibility, and revisit revolutionary historical predictions.

Emotional Component of Leadership: Delve into the significance of emotional intelligence in leadership and how emotions can both empower and, if unchecked, limit a leader's vision and actions.

Returning to the Office Post-Pandemic: Reflect on the rapid changes induced by the pandemic and their implications for meta-leadership. Explore the nuances of leading teams back to physical workplaces in the new normal.

The Power of Reflective Practices: Highlight the underestimated importance of journaling and reflection for leaders, illustrating how retrospection can be a guide to future strategies and decisions.

Distinguishing Good from Not-Good: Learn how to discern quality, especially within the finance sector, and utilize the 80/20 rule as a valuable tool for account managers.


Dive into this episode as Constance shares her profound knowledge and experience, guiding us through the maze of leadership complexities. Whether you aim to polish your leadership techniques, seek innovative problem-solving strategies, or simply wish to grasp the psychology behind decisive actions, this episode promises invaluable insights.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect With Constance: Website | Facebook | X (née Twitter) | LinkedIn


Constance's Book We Discussed: Meta-Leadership: How To See What Others Don't And Make Great Decisions


Read This: The Magical Move Leaders Can Make To Create Seismic Change


Related Conversation: Episode 354: How To Decide with Annie Duke


Related Blog Post: Why Reading Leadership Books will Boost Your Productivity



Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher
You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
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