Productivity Smarts Gerald J. Leonard

In a world increasingly chaotic, how can one make clear decisions and find peace of mind? Amidst the noise of debates and conflicts, it's easy to lose balance.
 
This episode of the Productivity Smarts Podcast is a deep dive into the fascinating concept of deep trade-offs. Host Gerald J. Leonard speaks with Mike Hassell, former General Manager and Co-founder of audio publisher Knowledge Products. Mike's background spans engineering, business, and liberal arts, a testament to the power of curiosity and risk-taking. His book, “The Deep Trade-offs,” explores conflicts between values and how understanding these can enhance decision-making.
 
They discuss mental and physical health connections, grit, and persistence in overcoming challenges. Mike explores living authentically, drawing on the idea of being kaleidoscopic in adapting to different situations. They delve into honesty versus deception, reversible versus irreversible decisions, and the transformative power of relationships. Storytelling emerges as a tool for understanding complex ideas and forging meaningful connections.
 
This episode offers practical wisdom and thought-provoking insights to revolutionize productivity and decision-making. Let’s dive in!
 
What We Discuss
[02:01] - Introduction to Mike Hassell
[03:25] - Mike's defining trait that has driven his success
[05:34] - Understanding deep trade-offs
[10:43] - Subconscious and emotional decision-making
[12:16] - Insights gained from psychology and medicine
[15:43] - Growth mindset and grit
[18:43] - The concept of authenticity
[21:10] - The tension between ideals and reality
[22:59] - The subconscious and shaping behavior
[31:08] - The difference between corresponding truth and coherent truth
[33:05] - The impact of relationships on inducing change
[36:31] - The concept of theories as stories
 
Notable Quotes
[06:13] "We don't give up on the things that we want to happen, and we struggle for them, and we step on toes." - Mike Hassell
[05:19] "What we admire most about people is generally not their pleasures and their beauty; it's their endurance and their resilience and their ability to do something in the face of hardship." - Mike Hassell
[11:35] “A lot of our decisions are made by emotions, and then we rationalize them to make them logical.” - Gerald J. Leonard
[20:01] "We change over time and we change based on the circumstances that we're in, but yes, we're a lot more like chameleons in some ways." - Gerald J. Leonard
[25:11 "A lot of times it's not the things that we don't know that's the problem; it's the things that we know that are not true." - Mike Hassell
[33:05] "People are not shoved into change; they're loved into it. Relationships come first if you want to change somebody, including yourself." - Mike Hassell
 
Resources
Mike Hassell
Website - https://deeptradeoffs.com/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-hassell/
Book: Deep Tradeoffs: Restoring Balance and Respect In A Polarized, Angry World
 
Productivity Smarts Podcast
Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com
 
Gerald J. Leonard
Website - geraldjleonard.com
Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com
Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard
 
Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds
 

Feeling overwhelmed or stressed out? You’re not alone. In our busy world, it’s easy to feel like we’re constantly racing against the clock. But guess what? Finding your happy place is doable.
 
This episode of the Productivity Smarts podcast delves into the intricate relationship between stress, fear, and productivity. Host Gerald J. Leonard sits down with Dr. Gary Sprouse, a practicing primary care doctor and the author of "Highway to a Happy Place: A Roadmap to Less Stress."
 
During the conversation, they discuss the impact of fear and worry on productivity, emphasizing the importance of managing stress through perspective shifts and practical tools like the "circle of control" and "worry organizer." Dr. Sprouse shares insights on self-esteem, hypnosis, and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) for reprocessing traumatic memories. The episode offers actionable strategies for reducing stress and enhancing productivity, encouraging listeners to apply these insights in their daily lives.
 
Don't miss out—tune in and start transforming your stress into productivity today!
 
What We Discuss
[02:01] - Introduction to Dr. Gary Sprouse
[05:59] - Understanding worry and fear
[08:10] - The benefits of yoga and tai chi in stress reduction
[11:04] - Dr. Sprouse's decision to become a doctor
[13:31] - Transition to writing the book
[16:39] - Misconceptions about stress and productivity
[17:23] - The perspective prism
[22:38] - The stratosphere model
[27:25] - Future negative and worry organizer
[34:52] - Circle of Control
[36:32] - Reframing memories and changing perspectives
[51:28] - Realistic optimism
[52:58] - Understanding self-esteem
[01:00:38] - Gratitude and your “happy place”
[01:06:07] - Perspective prism and limiting beliefs
 
Notable Quotes
[08:06] “It's the fear that gets us into trouble. That's what's running our motor at 100 miles an hour.” - Dr. Gary Sprouse
[15:24] “The less fear that we have, the more productive we're going to be.”  Dr. Gary Sprouse
[39:49] “You made the decision to risk your own life because you could have laid there and played dead, but you risked your own life to get up and help that other person. That’s what heroes do.” - Dr. Gary Sprouse
[51:28] “Guys tend to deal with their stresses by minimizing them. And women deal with their stresses by sharing them.” - Dr. Gary Sprouse
[53:20] “Self-esteem gets started when you're one. The first time you figure out you're different from your mom and your dad, your self-esteem starts.” - Dr. Gary Sprouse
 
Resources
Dr Gary Sprouse
Website - thelessstressdoc.com
LinkedIn: Gary Sprouse
Instagram: lessstressdoc
Book: Highway to a Happy Place: A Roadmap to Less Stress
 
Productivity Smarts Podcast
Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com
 
Gerald J. Leonard
Website - geraldjleonard.com
Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com
Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard

Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds

Get ready to be inspired by an incredible story of triumph over adversity in this episode of Productivity Smarts. Host Gerald J. Leonard dives into the remarkable journey of Terry L. Fossum, a true testament to the power of determination and resilience.
 
Terry's journey to success started in one of the most challenging cities in the United States. His life was filled with heart-wrenching setbacks and moments of overcoming tremendous hardships. Despite facing bleak predictions about his future, Terry defied the odds and went on to become a highly esteemed captain in the United States Air Force, as well as a successful international businessman, author, speaker, builder, and trainer.
 
In this engaging conversation, Terry introduces the groundbreaking Oxcart technique, a powerful tool he created to ignite passion and motivation. Through gripping personal stories and examples of individuals who have conquered formidable challenges, Terry vividly demonstrates the incredible transformative power of passion.
 
By tuning in to this episode, you'll gain valuable wisdom on how to harness passion and motivation in pursuit of your own goals. It's an episode you won't want to miss.
 
What We Discuss
[02:01] Introduction to Terry L Fossum
[04:25] Challenges in goal setting
[05:55] Overcoming failures
[07:29] The role of passion in success
[13:50] Embracing failure and Oxcart technique
[15:11] Harnessing pain and Oxcart technique
[17:40] Structured approach and real-life example
[20:05] Visualizing success and failure
[22:12] The parable of the Oxcart
[24:39] Research and scientific validation
[26:14] Neuroscience and personal growth
[28:06] Steps for changing your life
[30:15] Daily review and personal growth

 
Notable Quotes
[04:27] “Most of what we've been taught about goal setting is either incomplete or completely wrong.” - Terry
[05:58] “We all have failures. We talk about embracing failure and the future. I learned everything I could about positive visualization and goal setting.” - Terry
[28:19] “You can say money doesn't buy happiness, but poverty hurts and it does not help out.” - Terry
 
Resources
Terry L. Fossum
Website - terrylfossum.com
LinkedIn - Terry L. Fossum
Book: The Oxcart Technique: Blueprint for Success
 
Productivity Smarts Podcast
Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com
 
Gerald J. Leonard
Website - geraldjleonard.com
Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com
Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard
 
Mentioned
Book: Soul Surfer
Movie: Soul Surfer
 
Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds
 

Did you know that the simple act of journaling can be a powerful tool for shaping your reality? It's not just about jotting down the events of your day; it's about something much deeper.
 
In this episode of the Productivity Smarts Podcast, host Gerald J. Leonard delves into the power of journaling and its impact on personal success. He interviews Nathaniel A. Turner, an author, TEDx speaker, and humanitarian propulsion engineer, who shares his insights on journaling and productivity. Nathaniel emphasizes how journaling has significantly impacted his personal success. The discussion covers techniques like journaling forward, prioritizing activities, and using affirmations and vision boards to manifest desired outcomes, offering practical advice on enhancing productivity and achieving goals.
 
Don't miss out on the opportunity to revolutionize your life through the transformative force of journaling.
 
What We Discuss
[02:01] Introduction to Nathaniel A. Turner
[04:10] The misunderstood aspects of journaling
[09:26] The impact of journaling on Nathaniel
[12:52] Manifestation of goals through journaling
[16:43] Techniques for prioritizing activities and goals
[20:26] The neuroscience of writing
[26:58] Strategies for maintaining consistency in journaling
[31:05] Journaling as the starting point for efficient time management
 
Notable Quotes
[03:24] “You're only as good as you are on the new day. So yesterday, my mind doesn't matter.” - Nathaniel
[21:58] “I feel a little bit like what happens with journaling is similar to a GPS where you program where you want to go.” - Nathaniel
[25:42] ”I try to focus less on the outcome and more on the process.” - Nathaniel
[31:10] “If I don't start with journaling, then my day doesn't feel like I've started correctly.” - Nathaniel
 
Resources
Nathaniel A. Turner
Website - nathanielaturner.com
LinkedIn - Nathaniel Turner
Book: Journey Forward
 
Productivity Smarts Podcast
Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com
 
Gerald J. Leonard
Website - geraldjleonard.com
Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com
Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard
 
Mentioned
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
The 4-Hour Workweek by Timothy Ferriss
Feng Shui Master Marie Diamond
 
Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds
 

What if I told you that behind every smile, every success, lies a hidden battle – a struggle against the relentless tide of trauma, grief, and loss? How do we reconcile the paradox of achieving great feats while battling the demons of our own minds? And amidst the chaos, how do we find the courage to prioritize our emotional well-being and embrace the transformative power of self-care?
 
In a compelling conversation, host Gerald J. Leonard delves into the profound impact of trauma and grief on emotional well-being with author Sally Raymond, who shares her personal journey following her son's tragic death. Together, they emphasize the importance of self-care and integrating traumatic experiences to maintain mental and emotional health. 
 
Tune in to this powerful episode to gain invaluable insights on navigating through grief and trauma, and learn practical strategies for maintaining your mental and emotional well-being.
 
What We Discuss
[02:01] Sally Raymond's story
[05:13] Misunderstandings in psychotherapy
[07:49] The brain's response to trauma
[16:18] Strategies for coping with grief and loss
[22:33] The importance of self-care
[24:01] The impact of trauma on mental health and productivity
[25:29] Maintaining balance during difficult times
[34:27] Tips for setting realistic goals during challenging periods
[40:42] Finding new purpose after loss and advice for discovering a new direction
 
Notable Quotes
[04:06] “There is a place for no. The place for no is to say yes to something better.” - Sally
[14:06] “If you focus on the worst case, you're going to overreact. You're going to be filled with fear and you're going to do something silly that isn't going to be appropriate for the situation.”- Sally
[16:19] “Grief and loss take an enormous amount of energy, but it's a natural process. Don't fight it; allow yourself to feel because it's essential that you allow it full expression.” - Sally
[24:39] “Your well-being is absolutely integral to the functioning, consistency, and competence of every other member of your galaxy.” - Sally
[43:19] “Everything is not to take us out; it is the same thing—learn from it, don't demonize it, don't authorize it, look at what's the gift.” - Sally 
 
Resources
Sally Raymond
Website - https://sallyaraymond.com/
Book: The Son I Knew Too Late: A Guide to Help You Survive and Thrive
 
Productivity Smarts Podcast
Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com
 
Gerald J. Leonard
Website - https://productivitysmarts.com/
Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com
Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard
 
Mentioned
Book: Whole Brain Living by Jill Bolte Taylor 
 
Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds
 

How many times have you considered the impact of being a parent on your work productivity? The answer reveals a fascinating intersection of two vital roles in our lives. Regardless of your title or the heights you've reached in your career, the responsibilities and joys of parenting inevitably shape your daily life and, consequently, your productivity at work.
 
This episode of the Productivity Smarts podcast delves into how parenting can influence productivity.
 
Host Gerald J. Leonard is joined by guest Richard R. Ramos, founder of the Latino Coalition for Community Leadership (LCL). The LCL is a beacon of hope for high-risk families and youths, providing support and guidance to those in need. Richard's dedication to promoting stronger communities through emotional maturity, purpose, and values is clearly demonstrated in his advocacy work.
 
During the conversation, Richard sheds light on the often-overlooked impact of parenting on productivity. He shares his personal journey and insights into the importance of emotional maturity, purpose, and values in family life to enhance productivity. 
 
Don't miss out on transforming your approach to parenting and boosting productivity - it's all about making the right choices and embracing forgiveness.
 
What We Discuss
[02:07] Introduction to Richard Ramos
[03:07] The impact of parenting on productivity
[06:55] Richard’s journey to becoming a parent advocate
[13:40] Strategies for effective parenting
[19:21] Instilling purpose and values within the family
[22:27] Negative impact of technology on family interactions
[28:16] Three parenting styles and their effects
[32:03] Fostering resilience and adaptability in children
[35:41] Influence of parents on community building
[40:13] Conclusion and call to action
 
Notable Quotes
[05:45] “We grow old automatically, but we do not grow up automatically.” - Richard
[14:43] “The first thing to do to gain emotional maturity, I suggest to parents is, you got to find a time to slow down.” - Richard
[23:55] “Facebook is taking away ‘face time’, and you can't let that happen.” - Richard
[27:59] “Children are being influenced by influencers. I want to be the main influence in my life, for my children's life.” - Richard
[32:03] “One of the things I like to encourage parents in is I talk about preparation for separation and infiltration, not isolation.” - Richard 
 
Resources
Richard R. Ramos
Website - https://parentsonamission.org/
Book: Parents on a Mission by Richard Ramos
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-ramos-067ba018/
 
Productivity Smarts Podcast
Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com
 
Gerald J. Leonard
Website - https://productivitysmarts.com/
Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com
Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard
 
Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds