A Productive Conversation Mike Vardy

In this engaging episode of the podcast, I sit down with Mat Ellis, a pioneer in the productivity software arena, to explore how modern tools like AI can enhance both our work efficiency and our personal lives. We delve into the evolution of productivity platforms, particularly Mat's work with Sixty, and discuss the significant impact of these tools on our daily routines.
As we navigate through the conversation, Mat provides profound insights into the delicate balance between leveraging technology and maintaining genuine human interactions. This discussion is crucial for anyone looking to optimize their time management without sacrificing personal connections.
Key Discussion Points

The Evolution of Productivity Software: We discuss the origins and growth of the productivity platform Sixty, tracing its development from the early productivity revolution.

Technology as a Burden: Reflections on how the role of computers has shifted from being supportive tools to potential burdens, impacting both productivity and work-life balance.

Managing Communication Overload: Strategies on using software to manage email and communication overload, including AI's role in prioritizing important messages.

Automating with AI: Benefits of AI in automating routine tasks and implementing systems like the daily out-of-office, which helps manage email flow outside work hours.

AI and Human Interaction: The potential and limitations of AI in productivity and time management, emphasizing the importance of human creativity and interaction.

Personalized Communication: The value of personalized communication in relationship and time management, with examples of AI's role in enhancing these interactions.

Productivity vs. Relationship Nourishment: Discussing the balance between achieving productivity goals and nurturing personal relationships, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what truly matters.


My conversation with Mat Ellis was enlightening, showing us the potential of AI to transform our work habits and personal interactions. As we continue to integrate these technologies into our lives, it's vital to remain aware of the human element that fosters genuine connections and creativity. Remember, it's not just about being productive—it's about being meaningfully engaged with our tasks and the people around us.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Mat: Website | X/Twitter | LinkedIn


A little bit more on Jerry Colonna: Check out the Reunion website


Terry Crews with Rich Roll on "Nuance": Watch the clip | Watch the entire episode


Related Conversation: Episode 472: The Evolution of Getting Things Done with David Allen


Related Blog Post: Why Improving Your Relationship with Time is the Key to Mastering It



Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
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In this episode, originally broadcast in April 2020, I'm joined by Thomas Frank, a prominent content creator who has significantly influenced the YouTube and productivity community. Thomas opens up about his journey into video creation, sharing the nuances of his creative process and how he has successfully integrated his personal interests with productivity content. From the initial inspiration to the complexities of content creation and management, Thomas provides a comprehensive look into the life of a content creator striving to deliver valuable, engaging content.
As someone eager to dive into video content creation myself, Thomas's experiences and insights come at a perfect time. His journey from starting on YouTube in 2006 to becoming a serious content creator, inspired by folks like Pat Flynn and driven by a desire to infuse creativity into productivity, is nothing short of inspiring. We delve into the challenges of balancing creative energy with time management, and how personal interests can significantly enhance the content creation process.
Key Discussion Points

Thomas's transition into serious video content creation, inspired by Pat Flynn and the desire to deliver a powerful message through video.

The integration of personal interests with productivity content, creating unique and engaging videos.

The detailed research and personal testing that go into creating each video, emphasizing quality over quantity.

Challenges in managing creative energy and time, especially when balancing long-form projects with the demands of short-form content.

The importance of authenticity in content creation, drawing from a broad range of influences beyond the productivity genre.

Struggles with deciding on video topics, last-minute content compromises, and the balance between creative work and business responsibilities.

Leveraging existing audiences for new ventures, such as transitioning into music and exploring platforms like Nebula for content monetization.


My conversation with Thomas Frank sheds light on the multifaceted world of content creation, from the inception of an idea to the execution and beyond. His approach to blending productivity with creativity, while facing the challenges of time management and audience expectations, offers invaluable lessons for aspiring creators. Thomas's journey is a testament to the power of authenticity and the importance of integrating personal passions with professional endeavors. As we wrap up, it's clear that the key to successful content creation lies in finding a balance that resonates both with the creator and their audience.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Thomas: Website | X/Twitter | Main YouTube Channel


Check out "Thomas Franks Explains": YouTube Channel


Thomas Interviews ME: Listen here


The original version of this episode for more links: Check it out here


Related Conversation: Episode 389: A/J Jackson talks about Music, Glasses and Color Theory


Related Blog Post: The Power of Bit by Bit 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. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In an enlightening conversation with Dr. Dale Whelehan, CEO of Four Day Week Global, we dive into the evolving landscape of work and the compelling argument for a four-day workweek. This discussion unfolds organically, touching on the profound benefits that a shortened workweek can offer not just to individual productivity and well-being but also to the broader societal and business landscapes. Dr. Whelehan, with his extensive research and leadership in advocating for this shift, sheds light on why the century-old five-day workweek is ripe for change, especially in today's context of cognitive and emotional labor.
The COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably accelerated the reevaluation of work culture, pushing us into a realm where the tension between traditional and emerging work paradigms is more palpable than ever. Using the metaphor of a frog slowly boiling in water, we discuss how employees and employers are navigating this shift, with many seeking a balance that seems increasingly elusive. Dr. Whelehan highlights the critical dissonance at play, pointing out the pressing need for workplaces to adapt to what truly works for their people, rather than adhering to outdated modes that breed burnout and inefficiency.
Key Discussion Points

The relaxed and organic tone of productive conversations on significant shifts in work culture.

The mission of Four Day Week Global and the societal, business, and individual benefits of a four-day workweek.

Historical context and the evolution of work from physical to cognitive demands, highlighting the necessity for change.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on work intensity and the shift in employee-employer dynamics.

The concept of a "productivity intervention" as a sustainable approach to improving workplace output and well-being.

The significance of motivation and the science behind it in enhancing productivity within a reduced working week.

Challenges and strategies in implementing flexible work schedules across different cultures and industries.


My discussion with Dr. Whelehan offers a thought-provoking glimpse into the future of work, one that champions flexibility, well-being, and efficiency. The four-day workweek, as Dr. Whelehan articulates, is not just a fleeting trend but a pivotal movement towards redefining productivity and quality of life for employees around the globe. As we reflect on the cultural and logistical nuances of this transition, it becomes clear that the path to a more balanced, fulfilling work-life is paved with trust, collaboration, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of productivity, well-being, and the future of work.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Dr. Whelehan: Website | X/Twitter | LinkedIn


Learn more about the four day week initiative: Visit 4 Day Week Global's website


Check out Time Thieves: Find out where to watch the documentary here


Related Conversation: Episode 511: Francesco D’Alessio Talks About Innovative Productivity Apps and Methodologies


Related Blog Post: The 10 Hour Work Week



Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this month's installment of our PM Talks series, Patrick Rhone and yours truly (Mike Vardy) dissect the multifaceted concepts of failure, choice, and the consequent growth that can emerge from these experiences. Through a series of engaging stories and personal reflections, we delve into how our perceptions of failure and the choices we make in response to it can profoundly shape our personal and professional lives. Patrick brings a depth of insight to the conversation, prompting us to consider the power of reframing our narratives around failure and the critical role of choice in steering the course of our growth.
Our dialogue traverses various landscapes, from the humor and empathy found in college rejection letters to the daily choices that influence our habits and the monumental decisions that define our paths. We explore the importance of embracing failure as a crucial element of learning and growth, the impact of parenting on our perception of obstacles, and how personal experiences with technology and art can offer unexpected opportunities for expansion. The richness of our discussion highlights not only the inevitability of failure and choice in life but also the potential for meaningful growth that lies within these experiences.
Key Discussion Points

The perception of failure in the entrepreneurial space and its potential for reframing as growth.

The significance of choice in shaping our actions and their outcomes, underscored by personal anecdotes.

The role of parenting in teaching resilience through teenage failures and the navigation of new challenges.

The process of college admissions as a microcosm for broader life decisions and the acceptance of various outcomes.

The exploration of failure and success within the context of art and society, using Henri Toulouse-Lautrec's work as an example.

The balance between seizing opportunities and stretching beyond comfort zones, illustrated through personal contemplations on travel and financial decisions.

The concept of tolerance in decision-making and how it evolves with age, impacting our approach to risks and opportunities.


Wrapping up our conversation, Patrick and I touch on the underlying theme that binds these topics together: the intrinsic value of embracing life's uncertainties and the growth that emerges from this embrace. Whether discussing the finer points of art, the practicalities of technology and travel, or the philosophical depths of failure and success, our dialogue reaffirms the importance of stepping into the unknown with openness and curiosity.
This episode not only challenges listeners to rethink their relationship with failure but also encourages a deeper appreciation for the choices we face daily and the potential they hold for personal and professional evolution.
Links Worth Exploring

Some nerdy stuff about tolerance and its counterparts

The Lamy 2000 is an amazing fountain pen

Now about that whole flossing thing...

Coming Soon: A Book for You

Check out Patrick's website.

Read some Rhoneisms here.


Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode I sit down with Derin McMains, affectionately known as DMac, a former professional baseball player turned mental performance coach. DMac shares the journey behind his nickname and how it has followed him from high school baseball to the major leagues. Our conversation delves into the critical transition from sports to life after, highlighting the mental challenges and breakthroughs that come with changing career paths. As someone who has always been intrigued by the pivot points in athletes' careers, I found DMac's insights into mental performance and identity beyond sports truly enlightening.
DMac's transition to a mental performance coach stemmed from a profound realization about the importance of mental health in sports. Over the last 12 years, he has dedicated himself to helping athletes navigate their own transitions, focusing on the power of mindset and the fundamental skills that underpin peak performance. Our dialogue uncovers the layers of athlete identity, the struggles with self-doubt, and the path to mastering fundamentals that define a successful transition from sports to any next chapter in life.
Key Discussion Points

The origin of Darren's nickname, "DMac," and its significance throughout his career.

Transitioning from a professional athlete to a mental performance coach and the realization that led to this career shift.

The role of athlete identity in performance and retirement, including the challenge of seeing oneself beyond an athletic career.

The universal struggle with self-doubt among professional athletes and strategies to overcome it.

Emphasizing the mastery of fundamentals in sports and their importance for long-term success.

The concept of balance through presence in various aspects of life, rather than striving for a traditional work-life balance.

Practical advice on cultivating mindfulness and presence in daily activities, from enjoying a meal to setting intentional goals in both professional and personal spheres.


My conversation with DMac sheds light on the intricate journey from the baseball diamond to the field of mental performance coaching. His personal anecdotes, coupled with his professional insights, offer a roadmap for anyone facing a significant career transition or identity shift. His emphasis on mastering the fundamentals, whether in sports or life, alongside the need for presence and mindfulness, resonates beyond the athletic world. This episode is a reminder that the skills we cultivate in one arena can powerfully impact every other aspect of our lives, offering a foundation for growth, resilience, and fulfillment.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with DMac: ReliaQuest Website | X/Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn


Check out DMac's podcast: Listen here


A "Swift" story that aligns with DMac's story shared during our conversation: Read it here


Kobe Bryant's commitment to fundamentals and 4am workouts: Watch the story here


Related Conversation: Episode 241: What Sports Can Teach Us About Greatness with Don Yaeger


Related Blog Post: Why Small Wins Can Make Or Break 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. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the podcast, we delve deep into the realms of self-discovery and personal growth with the insightful Ian Morgan Cron, a renowned author and Enneagram expert. Our conversation, originally released in March 2022, revolves around Ian's book, "The Story of You," which introduces a fresh perspective on understanding our personalities through the Enneagram. As someone constantly seeking ways to better understand myself and enhance my productivity, I found Ian's approach not just fascinating but deeply helpful.
Ian Morgan Cron's expertise illuminates the intricate ways our self-narratives shape our identities and behaviors. We explore how the Enneagram can act as a powerful tool for unraveling these narratives, offering a path to more authentic living. The discussion spans from the technicalities of identifying our Enneagram types to practical advice on confronting and rewriting the self-limiting stories we've clung to.
Key Discussion Points

My curiosity about the Enneagram and the journey to discover my number with Ian's guidance.

Insights from "The Story of You" on how our personal stories and Enneagram types intertwine.

The concept of negative passions and virtues in the Enneagram, and how understanding these can foster personal growth.

The importance of recognizing and moving beyond stereotypes to truly understand our core Enneagram number and subtypes.

Reflecting on the role of the Enneagram in identifying and altering self-sabotaging narratives.

Strategies for using the Enneagram to explore our shadow sides and the impact of our stories on our lives and relationships.

Personal anecdotes from both Ian and myself on how the Enneagram has facilitated our paths to self-awareness and transformation.


Understanding the Enneagram and its application in dissecting and rewriting our personal narratives holds immense power for anyone on a path to self-improvement. Ian's insights not only shed light on the complexities of human personality but also offer tangible steps towards cultivating a life of greater authenticity and fulfillment. Whether you're new to the Enneagram or looking to deepen your understanding, "The Story of You" is a resource I cannot recommend highly enough.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Ian: Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram


Ian's Book: The Story of You


Ian's Podcast: Typology


Ian's Other Book: The Road Back to You


The iEQ9 Assessment: Take It Here


Related Conversation: Episode 270: The Daily Decision with Brian Dixon


Related Blog Post: Introducing The Awareness Building Class



Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.
Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.
Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices