A Productive Conversation Mike Vardy

In this episode, I chat with Khe Hy about our personal journeys in productivity and how our mindsets and habits have evolved over time. We emphasize the importance of finding personalized systems that accommodate various tasks and projects, providing a sense of control and organization. Khe also shares his unique experiences in the music industry, highlighting the tension between pursuing fame and authenticity.
Together, we explore the need to understand one’s motivations and desires rather than chasing external validation. Our discussion delves into our approaches to productivity and leisure, including the use of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy to rewire our productivity mindset.
Key Discussion Points

The shift from productivity to self-healing in our 40s.

How productivity systems change with different life stages and personal growth.

Balancing fame and authenticity in the music industry.

The importance of self-awareness and healing for true productivity.

Using Notion and other tools to capture and prioritize tasks effectively.

Daily routines and habits that promote work-life balance.

The impact of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy on productivity and self-awareness.


Khe Hy’s insights into evolving productivity and self-awareness offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to balance their work and personal life. His emphasis on healing, understanding personal motivations, and setting boundaries provides a holistic approach to productivity. Be sure to check out Khe’s work on radreads.co, his podcast, and follow him on Twitter and TikTok for more inspiring content.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Khe: Website | YouTube | X/Twitter


Khe’s Conversation with Ali Abdaal from 202: Watch here


Cal Newport’s Deep Questions Episode: Our Love/Hate Relationship with Personal Productivity


Related Conversation: Episode 532: Laura Mae Martin Talks About Personalized Productivity Systems and Well-being


Related Blog Post: Nuanced Time Management: Embracing Complexity for 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.
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In this episode, I’m joined by Marie-Hélène Pelletier, a renowned expert on resilience, productivity, and sustainable efforts. We dive deep into the concept of resilience, exploring how it requires sustained efforts over time and effective strategies to cope with unexpected challenges. Marie-Hélène shares insights from her latest book, which focuses on breaking the pattern of relying on resilience alone and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and sustainability.
Together, we reflect on our personal experiences and discuss the role of resilience in our lives. Marie-Hélène provides valuable strategies for monitoring and building a strong baseline of resilience, offering actionable steps for creating a structure to check in with ourselves and avoid self-destructive thoughts.
Key Discussion Points

Resilience is not a given; it requires a strategy to cope with challenges.

External messages and internal self-talk shape our perception of being resilient.

The importance of self-awareness in measuring and building resilience.

Linking intentions with attention to avoid unhelpful thoughts affecting productivity.

The relationship between grit and resilience, with resilience offering an upgrade after challenges.

Creating a structure for self-check-ins to protect emotions and needs.

The book’s emphasis on understanding fundamentals before building a strategic approach.


Marie-Hélène Pelletier’s insights on resilience and sustaining efforts over time are invaluable for anyone looking to enhance their productivity and mental health. Her book, “The Resilience Plan,” offers a strategic approach with practical exercises and actionable steps to help readers optimize their work performance and well-being. Don’t forget to visit resilienceplan.com for free worksheets and more information.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Marie-Hélène: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter


Get Marie-Hélène’s Book: The Resilience Plan: A Strategic Approach to Optimizing Your Work Performance and Mental Health


Related Conversation: Episode 398: Juliet Funt talks about a Minute to Think


Related Blog Post: The Balance Between Urgency and Purpose



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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Welcome to the latest episode in our monthly series, PM Talks. In this episode, I sit down with Patrick to discuss the importance of perspective in our daily lives. We dive into our personal experiences with escaping the daily grind, the joys and challenges of investing in vacation homes, and the unique significance of family cabins.
Patrick and I also explore how perspective shapes our understanding and interactions in various contexts, from personal experiences and storytelling to broader conversations. We touch on the challenges of navigating a fast-paced world and the benefits of giving oneself space to appreciate different viewpoints. This episode is packed with insights on how establishing a shared understanding can set the stage for successful projects and meaningful connections.
Key Discussion Points

Our experiences with quick weekend getaways to family cabins, balancing busy schedules and relaxation.

The rich history and traditions of a family cabin in Minnesota, highlighting its generational significance.

The impact of perspective on reducing friction in various contexts, using examples like a multi-handled coffee mug and a Star Wars reference.

The challenges and unique viewpoints in watching circus performances, particularly a standout 16-year-old performer.

A discussion on Cirque du Soleil’s “Love” show, its technical marvels, and the different reactions from Beatles fans and seasoned Cirque viewers.

The relevance of George Orwell's "1984" to modern society and how perspective can shift our understanding of literature and life.

The importance of empathy and perspective-taking in communication, emphasizing the need to understand the "why" behind someone's viewpoint.


As we wrap up, Patrick and I reflect on how travel and new experiences can broaden our perspectives and lead to personal growth. We share anecdotes, such as my daughter’s transformative trip to Europe, illustrating how different viewpoints can profoundly impact our understanding of the world. We also delve into how aligning projects with personal values and perspectives is key to feeling a sense of completion and fulfillment.
Links Worth Exploring

Patrick's Website

What is the Barash Vow?

Here's the book that Patrick was talking about

About Nuance...

...and Choices


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 episode, I have a conversation with Kevin Surace, a prolific inventor and AI expert with 94 worldwide patents. Kevin and I dive into the strategies for maintaining productivity and purpose in life, including prioritizing tasks, managing energy levels, and navigating the second phase of life. We also explore the impact of AI on society and productivity, highlighting both its benefits and challenges.
Throughout our discussion, Kevin shares his insights on the potential and limitations of AI assistants in content creation and relationship advice, emphasizing the need to use these tools responsibly and ethically. We offer practical advice and strategies for balancing various roles and responsibilities while maintaining productivity and purpose in life.
Key Discussion Points

The importance of productivity and prioritization, emphasizing real-world problem-solving and finding joy in work.

Strategies for maintaining energy and focus, including the benefits of being a night owl and the importance of exercise.

The potential impact of AI on jobs and productivity, highlighting both opportunities and challenges.

How AI tools like Otter.ai, GPT, Copilot, and Dall-E can increase productivity by automating tasks and generating ideas.

The responsible use of AI language models for refining prompts and enhancing creative processes.

The role of AI in improving critical thinking and fostering innovation in various fields.

Practical advice for entrepreneurs, especially those in the second phase of life, on identifying real problems and turning them into successful businesses.


In closing, Kevin and I reflect on the exciting possibilities that AI brings to productivity and innovation, while also stressing the importance of using these tools ethically. We hope this episode provides valuable insights and practical advice for maintaining productivity and finding purpose in your personal and professional life.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Kevin: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter


Related Conversation: Episode 513: Haris Butt Talks About AI and Productivity Enhancements


Related Blog Post: There’s Nothing Wrong with Being a Night Owl



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 episode of the podcast, I'm joined by Corey Poirier, a renowned speaker and author for a special double episode. We discuss the inspiration behind writing a parable-style book (like his book "The Enlightened Passenger", the importance of passion in one's work, and the unique challenges of stand-up comedy. Corey shares his journey of discovering his passion for speaking and teaching others how to find their own passion, providing listeners with practical advice and insights along the way.
We also revisit Corey's previous appearance on the show, where he shares the critical steps to overcoming public speaking fears, including Corey's 90-day program that offers weekly video trainings, a supportive social media community, and expert Q&A sessions. Corey emphasizes the significance of taking baby steps in conquering these fears and launching a successful speaking career.
As we wrap up the conversation, Corey leaves us with actionable steps to help listeners embark on their own journey of discovering and pursuing their passions. His insights and experiences serve as a valuable guide for anyone looking to overcome their fears and achieve their dreams.
Key Discussion Points

The inspiration behind Corey Poirier's parable-style book "The Enlightened Passenger" and its layered approach to personal growth and spirituality.

Corey's journey from stand-up comedy to keynote speaking, highlighting the transformative impact of following one's passion.

The role of passion in one's work and how Corey discovered his through stand-up comedy and speaking.

Practical advice for overcoming public speaking fears, including stage training programs like Toastmasters and Dale Carnegie.

The importance of taking baby steps to build confidence in public speaking and how Corey's 90-day program supports this process.

Corey shares insights on finding one's passion, starting with a pen and paper exercise to reflect on what one would do if money weren't an issue.

Tips for avoiding distractions during the passion-finding process, such as turning off notifications and moving your phone away.


This episode with Corey Poirier is packed with valuable insights and practical advice on finding and pursuing your passion, overcoming public speaking fears, and achieving personal growth. Whether you're looking to make a career change or simply want to conquer your fears, Corey's journey and expertise offer a wealth of inspiration and guidance.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Corey: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter


Get Corey’s Book: The Enlightened Passenger


Explore one of Corey's other initiatives: Learn more about bLU Talks


Learn more about Corey's speaker program: Check it out here


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


Related Blog Post: Why I’m Passionate About Personal 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.
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In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Google’s productivity expert, Laura Mae Martin, to explore the nuances of personal and business productivity. With thirteen years at Google under her belt, Laura has experience in sales, product operations, event planning, and executive coaching.
During our conversation, Laura shares her journey to becoming a productivity guru and the insights that led to her latest book, "UPTIME: A Practical Guide to Personal Productivity and Wellbeing." Together, we explore how traditional definitions of productivity often miss the mark and how personalized systems can truly enhance effectiveness and well-being.
Join us as we discuss strategies for prioritizing tasks, setting boundaries, and managing time more effectively. Laura emphasizes the importance of flexibility and realism in setting boundaries and shares her preferred productivity systems and methods, including the innovative "list funnel" approach.
Key Discussion Points


Laura’s Origin Story: How Laura became a productivity expert and authored "Uptime."


Redefining Productivity: Linking intention and attention, rather than focusing solely on efficiency.


The 5 C’s of Productivity: What are they and how do they work?


Managing Urgent Tasks: The benefits of setting a daily urgent time block versus reactive management.


The List Funnel Concept: Laura’s favorite part of her book, offering a systematic approach to task management.


Balancing Work and Personal Life: Personal productivity systems and the challenges of maintaining balance.


Work Flexibility During the Pandemic: How the shift to remote work has changed productivity dynamics and management approaches.


Laura Mae Martin’s insights offer a refreshing take on productivity, emphasizing the need for personalized systems and realistic boundaries. Her practical advice and strategies provide valuable tools for anyone looking to enhance their productivity and well-being. Be sure to check out her book "Uptime" for a deeper dive into these concepts.
Links Worth Exploring

Connect with Laura: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram


Get Laura’s Book: UPTIME: A Practical Guide to Personal Productivity and Wellbeing


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


(Another) Related Conversation: Episode 360: A World Without Email with Cal Newport


Related Blog Post: How to Be Productive When You’re Sick and Tired



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