A Productive Conversation Mike Vardy

In this episode of the podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome Russel Lolacher, a good friend of mine and a visionary in the realms of leadership and workplace culture. Russel joins me to delve into the nuances of creating a more human-centered and productive work environment. This episode is a deep dive into the subtleties of leadership, the dynamics of team relationships, and the strategies for nurturing a positive workplace culture.
Russel is an international speaker and the founder/host of Relationships at Work - the leadership mindset guide to creating a workplace we love, a show digging into timely and relevant topics with global experts on how to be better leaders and create healthy workplace cultures. He’s held successful leadership and communication roles for almost 25 years, retaining one team for almost 12 years, and his work and expertise in building employee and customer trust has been recognized on international stages, multiple publications, and as a 4x named Top Thought Leader by the International Customer Management Institute (ICMI). He also spoke at The BIG Ready - first in person and then virtually. 
As I chat with Russel, we uncover the layers that constitute effective leadership and the pivotal role of workplace relationships in shaping an organization's success. From discussing the impact of leadership on employee engagement to exploring the intricacies of team dynamics, this episode offers a comprehensive view of modern workplace challenges and solutions.
Key Discussion Points

Insights into leadership and its influence on workplace culture.

The shift from traditional "soft skills" to more human-centered language in professional settings.

The vital role of company culture in boosting employee engagement and the gap between executive perception and actual workplace environment.

Emphasizing genuine relationship-building and long-term connections over superficial interactions in the workplace.

The importance of self-awareness and empathy in leadership for building meaningful workplace relationships.

Regular employee check-ins as a tool for better performance assessment and fostering deeper connections.

Prioritizing employee experience in leadership and the shift towards valuing employees as key organizational assets.


Russel's insights in this episode highlight the critical elements of successful leadership and the impact of thoughtful workplace culture. By focusing on empathy, self-awareness, and authentic relationships, leaders can cultivate an environment where every team member feels valued and motivated. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the transformative power of effective leadership and the creation of a vibrant, engaging workplace.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Russel: Website | X | LinkedIn | Instagram


Relationships At Work: Listen to the Podcast


Check Out My Appearance on Russel's Podcast: Our Relationship with Time Management at Work


Russel's Blog Post About Three Words For The Year: PLANNING THE YEAR AHEAD IN JUST 3 WORDS


Related Conversation: Episode 420: Daniel Coyle talks about The Culture Playbook


Related Blog Post: Seeing Through The Fog



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 "from the vault", originally released in November 2021, I had the pleasure of chatting with Juliet Funt, author of "A Minute to Think: Reclaim Creativity, Conquer Busyness, and Do Your Best Work". Together, we delved into how the often-overlooked concept of whitespace is crucial for creativity, productivity, and a balanced life. Juliet's insights are particularly timely in our fast-paced, performative world where busyness often masquerades as effectiveness.
Our discussion ranged from tackling the misconceptions of work-life balance to the innovative concept of 'time sketching' versus traditional time management. Juliet's approach to productivity isn't just about doing more; it's about creating space for what truly matters. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to revitalize their approach to work and life.
Key Discussion Points

The detrimental effects of "performative busyness" on well-being and productivity.

Rethinking the concept of work-life balance and insatiability in the workplace.

Creative strategies to boost productivity, exemplified by unconventional sales methods.

The vital role of whitespace in fostering creativity and effective work habits.

Juliet's unique approach to time management: "time sketching" for flexibility.

Addressing the 'thieves of time' like social media, email, and meetings.

The importance of integrating whitespace into daily life for focus and creativity.


This episode with Juliet Funt was an enlightening journey through the realms of productivity and personal growth. Her perspective on embracing whitespace and thoughtful time management is a game-changer for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the hustle culture. Remember, it's not just about doing more; it's about creating space to do what's truly important.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Juliet: Website | X | LinkedIn


Get The Book: A Minute to Think: Reclaim Creativity, Conquer Busyness, and Do Your Best Work


Check Out This Book: Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman


My Conversations with Cal Newport: Episode 93 | Episode 229 | Episode 360


Austin Kleon's Appearance on The Podcast: Listen Here


Matthew Fox's Book: The Reinvention of Work: A New Vision of Livelihood for Our Time


Listen To This: Why Is My Life So Hard? (Ep. 280) – Freakonomics


Related Conversation: Episode 266: Becoming Indistractable with Nir Eyal


Related Blog Post: Pause and Affect



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.
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In today's podcast, I had an engaging conversation with Dan Pontefract, a renowned leadership strategist, about the nuanced aspects of work-life balance and productivity. Dan brings a fresh perspective to these topics, challenging the conventional understanding of work-life balance with insightful reflections from his book "Work-Life Bloom: How to Nurture a Team that Flourishes."
Throughout our discussion, Dan emphasized the dynamic nature of balancing work and life, debunking the myth of a perfect equilibrium. He shared his poetic inspiration for the book and delved into how work-life balance intertwines with personal and professional growth, employee engagement, and authenticity in the workplace.
Key Discussion Points

Dan's poetic approach in "Work-Life Bloom" and the meaning behind it.

Challenging the traditional concept of work-life balance and its limitations.

The revelation that "time management" is less about quantity and more about quality.

The six life factors contributing to personal and professional fulfillment.

The importance of authenticity and systemic issues in the workplace.

Rethinking work-life balance strategies in light of increasing work-related stress.

The need for sustainable workplace wellness practices and self-management.


My conversation with Dan Pontefract was a deep dive into reimagining work-life balance. His insights provide a valuable framework for anyone looking to manage their professional and personal lives more effectively. By focusing on sustainable practices and self-management, we can create a healthier, more fulfilling work environment.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Dan: Website | X | Facebook | LinkedIn | Instagram


Get The Book: Work-Life Bloom: How to Nurture a Team that Flourishes


Dan's Body of Work: Check it Out on Amazon


Related Conversation: Episode 236: Achieving Work-Life Balance with Clayton Morris


Related Blog Post: Beyond Work-Life Balance: The Pursuit of Wholeness in a Fragmented World



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.
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In this enlightening episode of the podcast, I had the privilege of hosting Brian Johnson, a thinker and writer who delves deep into the art of living a productive life. Brian, the author of "Areté: Activate Your Heroic Potential", shares his unique insights into how we can bridge the gap between our potential and our current selves. His ideas are not just philosophical musings; they are practical tools for transforming our daily lives.
My conversation with Brian was an exploration of the true essence of productivity, not just in terms of what we do, but more importantly, who we are. From discussing the importance of aligning our actions with our true values to mastering the fundamentals of a successful life, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to live their best life.
Key Discussion Points

Brian Johnson's interpretation of "areté" as a guide for living a great life.

The significance of closing the gap between our potential and actual selves.

Living life based on one's own terms, emphasizing virtues and excellence.

The importance of fundamentals like eating, moving, sleeping, and focusing.

The concept of "soul force" and its role in finding purpose and personal power.

Discussing productive habits and emotional resilience for a fulfilling life.

Insights on prioritization, self-awareness, and continual personal growth.


This discussion with Brian was a profound journey into understanding life's ultimate game. His insights provide a clear path for anyone looking to elevate their existence by focusing on what truly matters. If you're seeking to activate your heroic potential and live a life of purpose and excellence, this episode is an indispensable guide.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Brian: X | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram


Get The Book: Areté: Activate Your Heroic Potential


What is Heroic? Check out the platform here


Listen to Brian's Podcast: Heroic with Brian Johnson


John Wooden's Pyramid of Success: Get The Book


The Fundamentals with David Robinson(s): Listen here


Steven Pressfield's Latest Book: The Daily Pressfield (Note: This book is on my wish list for sure! - MV)


Related Conversation: Episode 446: How to Fight a Hydra with Josh Kaufman


Related Blog Post: The Quest for “Just Right”



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.
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In episode 500 of our podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the productivity guru David Allen in Lisbon at Running Remote. We dove deep into the evolution of Allen's revolutionary Getting Things Done (GTD) methodology and its profound impact on the ever-changing landscape of work culture. From the foundations laid down in its early days to the current dynamics of remote work, we unpack how the principles of GTD have stood the test of time and technology.
This special episode peels back the layers on not just productivity techniques but also the human aspects of working remotely. David Allen's insights into self-management, coupled with the challenges and opportunities presented by a digital world, provided a robust discourse on staying productive amidst a sea of distractions.
Key Discussion Points

The origins and evolution of David Allen's GTD methodology and its widespread influence since its inception

Transitioning to remote work: how David Allen's company adapted by scaling down and partnering with Vital Learning.

The critical role of self-management over time management in a remote work setting.

Strategies for enhancing team productivity and communication in a remote environment, including the concept of "channel creep."

The development of work culture and productivity norms within remote teams, emphasizing the need for clear communication protocols.

The intersection of AI technology and productivity practices, discussing the potential and limits of AI in implementing GTD.

Practical advice on implementing productivity and self-management practices in non-traditional work structures, such as holacracy.


Wrapping up, this milestone episode with David Allen has been nothing short of enlightening. His time-tested advice, from clearing your head to modeling self-management, resonates profoundly in our modern, flexible work environments. For anyone looking to navigate the complexities of productivity in the remote work era, this conversation is a goldmine. Remember, it's not just about managing time; it's about managing yourself.
Links Worth Exploring

Learn More About GTD: Website


Running Remote: Explore The Conference

Get The Book: Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity


Check Out The Video Of Our Chat: Watch Now


Explore Vital Learning: Website


Holacracy: Learn More


Related Conversation: Episode 290: Creative Menopause with Chase Reeves [Recorded LIVE at The BIG Ready]


Related Blog Post: The Concept of “Efforting”



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 we delve deep with Milos Belcevic as he shares his enlightening perspective on applying product management principles to foster personal growth. Milos navigates us through a transformative conversation, exploring the boundaries of traditional product management and its profound implications in our daily lives.
We journey through Milos’ book, "Build Your Way: Applying Project Management To Life," and discuss how treating life like a product to be managed can lead to astonishing breakthroughs. The speakers emphasize the significance of interactions, value prioritization, and a robust framework of principles like Agile and Lean in both personal and professional realms.
Key Discussion Points

Why the application of business principles in personal life works

Importance of interactions in product management and maximizing value through conscious choices

Simplifying life through exploration and problem-solving to foster innovation and growth.

Utilizing Agile and Lean frameworks for optimization and improved efficiency in various life aspects

Application of KPIs in personal areas such as health, finance, work, and social life for holistic improvement

Insights into using project management tools like Kanban to prioritize tasks and foster personal development


This episode offers a novel perspective on intertwining product management principles with aspects of personal life. Milos, along with our esteemed guests, provides a compass to navigate life’s complexities with a product manager's precision and foresight.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Milos: Website | LinkedIn


Milos’s Digital Garden: Check It Out


Get The Book: Build Your Way: Applying Project Management To Life


Related Conversation: Episode 63: Project Management and You with Cesar Abeid


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. 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