Productivity Smarts

Gerald J. Leonard
  • 5.0 (18)
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Productivity Smarts

Productivity Smarts is an audio podcast hosted by Gerald J. Leonard, a productivity expert who helps other professionals get more done. Each episode features an in-depth discussion or interview with top productivity experts, tips, and strategies to help you become more productive by leveraging neuroscience principles. Features: • Interviews with top productivity experts • Tips and strategies for getting more done • Interviews with people who are doing great things Benefits: • Learn how to get more done • Get inspired by others who are doing great things in their lives • Hear what they do to stay focused and motivated Want Free Personalized Coaching? Try My AI Neuro-Productivity Executive Coach GPT https://chatgpt.com/g/g-67f417d34dbc819187762515f7fb28ed-neuro-productivity-executive-coach-gpt A Symphony of Choices: https://amzn.to/3Keq3zx Growth Strategies: https://productivityintelligenceinstitute.com/mastermind/ KIVA: It's a loan, not a donation Join me in providing micro loans through Kiva that create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds Connect with Gerald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geraldjleonard Free Productivity Smarts Weekly Evaluation Worksheet https://go.productivityintelligenceinstitute.com/productivity-smarts-worksheet Free Workbook: Every Goal Is A Project, and Everyone Is A Project Manager https://go.productivityintelligenceinstitute.com/every-goal-is-a-project Discover How To Set Goals, Build A High-Performing Team, & Increase Productivity.... Starting Today!” https://workshop.productivityintelligenceinstitute.com/optin1666905303826?_ga=2.21012029.741858075.1668537790-242233139.1659493194 Learn more at www.productivitysmartspodcast.com

  1. Productivity Smarts 110 - Lessons for Living Large with Barbara Stone

    3D AGO

    Productivity Smarts 110 - Lessons for Living Large with Barbara Stone

    In this episode of Productivity Smarts, host Gerald J. Leonard chats with leadership coach and author Barbara Stone about her book So Much to Drool About, which uses stories of her Great Danes to teach life lessons on productivity, resilience, and living with purpose. Barbara shares how aligning with personal values and embracing a growth mindset can transform both personal and professional life. She highlights the importance of gratitude, morning routines, and perspective-shifting techniques to overcome challenges. The conversation delves into overcoming limiting beliefs, with Barbara emphasizing the power of dreaming and stepping out of "crates" (comfort zones) to achieve growth. She also discusses her leadership model, which focuses on self-awareness, partnership, and coaching. Listeners will gain practical tips, such as reframing mistakes as learning opportunities and building resilience through alignment with workplace values. Barbara’s infectious energy and wisdom remind us that life is "to be drooled over"—full of potential for those willing to embrace courage and clarity. Tune in for inspiration to unlock your productivity and live large! What We Discuss [00:00] Introduction to Barbara Stone [02:44] Book introduction: So Much to Drool About [08:51] Living large and leading with values [10:37] Book inspiration and wisdom statements [11:24] Positive thinking and brain science [15:53] Coaching clients through stuckness [21:15] Overcoming limiting beliefs and growth mindset [25:43] Dreaming, affirmations, and quantum flirts [29:04] Building a morning routine filled with gratitude and inspiration [34:16] Life lessons from the book [37:50] Where to find the author and closing remarks   Notable Quotes [06:22] “I want people to pick up this book to be inspired and to drool over life, because life is amazing.” – Barbara Stone [09:47] "I truly believe that it's our right to live into our values and live into our purpose. The Danes live large. They be who they need to be, and they show up as they need." – Barbara Stone [22:20] "If you could start thinking about, well, what if, and start searching for what might be possible, you start growing." – Barbara Stone [32:40] "We literally have the ability to program how we're going to see the world." – Gerald J. Leonard [35:04] "Amidst tempting choices, choose wisely. The path to satisfaction lies in the decision that nourishes both your body and soul." – Barbara Stone [35:46] "I give myself the grace to make mistakes. They're often fuel for growth and canvas for learning." – Barbara Stone Our Guest Barbara Stone is a leadership development coach, author, speaker, and founder of BarbStone.com. With a passion for emotional intelligence, personal growth, and helping others lead with purpose, Barbara draws from both her professional expertise and personal experiences—including life with her four Great Danes—to inspire transformation in others. Her book, So Much to Drool About: Lessons for Living Large, blends storytelling, self-reflection, and leadership insights through the eyes of her beloved dogs. Barbara is also a TEDx speaker, social-emotional learning advocate, and an enthusiastic supporter of personal alignment and purposeful living. Resources Barbara Stone Website: https://barbstone.me/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/barb-stone Book: So Much to Drool About: Lessons for Living Large   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

    40 min
  2. Productivity Smarts 109 - Mindset Unlock with Mike Sealy

    JUL 8

    Productivity Smarts 109 - Mindset Unlock with Mike Sealy

    In this thought-provoking episode of the Productivity Smarts Podcast, host Gerald J. Leonard welcomes inclusive leadership strategist, executive coach, and author Mike Sealy to explore one of the biggest productivity blockers — your mindset. Drawing from his book Mindset Unlocked: How Leaders, Learners, and Dreamers Crush Self-Doubt and Unlock Their Potential, Mike shares actionable strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, reframing failure, and thriving under pressure. Gerald and Mike dive into how fear of failure sabotages productivity, why bouncing forward is more powerful than bouncing back, and how resilience, emotional intelligence, and growth mindset transform both personal and professional success. They also reveal how leaders can cultivate confidence, unlock their team’s potential, and adapt to rapid changes—including the AI revolution reshaping business. Listeners will walk away with practical tools to stay calm under pressure, embrace discomfort, and turn daily habits into their competitive advantage. What We Discuss [00:00] Introduction to Mike Sealy [04:36] Book praise and author’s journey [05:11] Success through stretch goals [07:28] Imposter syndrome and growth zones [10:30] Resilience and bouncing forward [12:59] Psychological barriers to growth mindset [15:18] Staying calm under pressure [17:22] Overcoming freeze mindset [20:08] Box breathing and self-talk techniques [21:39] Adapting in a fast-paced world [22:47] Practice and deliberate repetition [23:56] Learning from mistakes and growth culture [25:17] Emotional intelligence in leadership [27:43] Essential daily practice: don’t fall in love with tradition [28:34] AI, innovation, and future skills [30:39] Where to find Mike Sealy and his book Notable Quotes [09:17] "One of the biggest problems of imposter syndrome is fear of failure." – Mike Sealy [12:39] "For every obstacle you come up against or every failure that you find is how you manage through that process. And the best way to manage through it is keep moving forward." – Mike Sealy [13:35] "Failure is not the opposite of success. It’s a prerequisite to success." – Mike Sealy [15:59] "We need to stay calm under pressure, but the pebbling is the habit that we need to develop and make into a routine." – Gerald J. Leonard [27:50] "Don't fall in love with tradition. The world is changing. So, if you get stuck in the status quo of things, you're already being left behind." – Mike Sealy Our Guest Mike Sealy is an inclusive leadership strategist, executive coach, and co-founder of X-INC GLOBAL. With over 25 years of leadership experience, Mike specializes in helping leaders, learners, and dreamers overcome imposter syndrome, cultivate emotional intelligence, and unlock their full potential. His book Mindset Unlocked distills years of hard-earned wisdom into practical tools for transforming fear into fuel for growth. Resources Mike Sealy LinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/sealymike Book: Mindset Unlocked: How Leaders, Learners, and Dreamers Crush Self-Doubt and Unlock Their Potential 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

    33 min
  3. Productivity Smarts 108 - Focus to Fortune with Cindy Baker

    JUL 1

    Productivity Smarts 108 - Focus to Fortune with Cindy Baker

    In this episode of Productivity Smarts, Gerald J. Leonard sits down with Cindy Baker, productivity coach, speaker, and author of Focus to Fortune: Profitable Time Management for Busy Minds. With a background in education and counseling, and a deep understanding of how ADHD impacts daily life, Cindy helps entrepreneurs cut their work time in half by eliminating distractions and leveraging their neurodiverse strengths for better results in less time. Cindy shares how a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis reshaped her approach to focus, structure, and productivity. Drawing from personal experience and years of coaching, she reveals why traditional productivity hacks often fail for ADHD minds and what to do instead. Gerald and Cindy explore how time audits expose hidden inefficiencies, how to implement 90-minute sprints to access deep focus, and how to use the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize work that drives real impact. They also tackle how to set boundaries, say no without guilt, and build lasting habits through simple techniques like habit stacking. Rather than trying to “fix” ADHD, Cindy encourages listeners to reframe it as a competitive advantage; one that, with the right tools and mindset, can fuel purpose, profitability, and balance. If you're overwhelmed by distractions or want a productivity system that works with your brain and not against it, this episode is your starting line. What We Discuss [00:00:00] Introduction to Cindy Baker [00:03:27] Cindy’s ADHD journey & success [00:06:03] The power of gratitude & mindset shifts [00:07:12] Time audit & time blindness [00:10:18] Distraction management & the 90-minute sprint method [00:13:30] Deep work & digital discipline [00:15:05] Matching energy to tasks & circadian rhythms [00:17:54] Prioritization: The Eisenhower Matrix for ADHD minds [00:21:11] Saying no without guilt & qualifying your “yes” [00:24:47] Strategies for building lasting routines that stick [00:28:02] Cindy’s free gift & closing thoughts Notable Quotes [05:40] “I’ve figured out what works with an ADHD brain and what doesn’t, and I think that’s the key. Instead of focusing on what needs fixing, ask what are the strengths, and how can you leverage those?” – Cindy  [07:13] "Awareness is the first step. And so if you don't understand where your time is going and how you're wasting time, then you can't fix it.” – Cindy [23:35] "Every time you say yes to one thing, you're saying no to something else; often yourself.” – Cindy [25:24] “Habit stacking is really helpful. For instance, I used to lose my keys all the time, so I started to put my keys in a coffee mug that I keep by the coffee maker, and I always have coffee. I don’t have to think about that the night before.” – Cindy Our Guest Cindy Baker is a productivity coach, speaker, and advertising strategist who helps entrepreneurs maximize profits and performance — especially those managing ADHD. A former teacher and counselor, Cindy blends research, personal experience, and proven frameworks to guide busy minds toward focused, impactful action. Cindy is the author of Focus to Fortune: Profitable Time Management for Busy Minds and leads programs that help clients reduce overwhelm, boost effectiveness, and build lives aligned with their true strengths. Resources Cindy Baker Website - https://cindybakercoaching.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/adhdcoachcindybaker/ Book: Focus to Fortune: https://www.amazon.com/Focus-Fortune-Profitable-Management-Minds Beat Procrastination Course – https://waitnomore.net/ 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

    31 min
  4. Productivity Smarts 107 - The Business of Relationships with Tom Hagerty

    JUN 24

    Productivity Smarts 107 - The Business of Relationships with Tom Hagerty

    In this compelling episode of the Productivity Smarts Podcast, Gerald J. Leonard welcomes veteran business strategist and author Tom Hagerty to explore a powerful truth: every productivity issue is ultimately a relationship issue. Drawing on insights from his book The Business of Relationships and over 45 years of executive leadership, Tom discusses how trust, connection, and communication form the backbone of productive teams and thriving organizations. From ghosting in the workplace and quiet quitting to leadership transparency and emotional resilience, Gerald and Tom examine the real-world challenges facing today’s workforce. They unpack why “change before you have to” is more than just a mantra—it’s a survival skill in today’s dynamic business environment. Listeners will learn how to strengthen culture, rebuild trust after conflict, and lead with authenticity. Plus, they’ll hear how legendary quotes from leaders like Walt Disney, Jack Welch, and Sheryl Sandberg tie directly into the art of building high-performing relationships. Whether you're a team leader, executive, or aspiring professional, this episode is packed with timeless lessons and actionable insights for turning strong relationships into your greatest productivity tool. What We Discuss [00:02:01] Introduction to Tom Hagerty [00:06:51] Entrepreneurial mindset for success [00:08:17] Information overload & critical thinking [00:09:30] The power of relationships in business [00:11:38] Workplace trends & ghosting [00:16:14] Transparency & mutual respect in leadership [00:21:05] Leadership styles: the bird analogy [00:24:10] Relationship problems are core problems [00:26:54] Walt Disney on people & dreams [00:29:15] Imperfect leaders & business success [00:36:46] How to connect with Tom Hagerty Notable Quotes [04:18] "Every day that we spend, every day that we waste, every day that we don't achieve what we set out to do, we are literally marching toward death, and every one of us has an expiration date” – Tom [09:30] "I'm not a self-made man. I don't think anyone is. But I know it is because of relationships and the relationships I forged through networking that have allowed me to grow and build and do the things that I'm doing.” – Tom [28:14] "If you don't have somebody to sit on that expensive leather couch with you and watch the big screen, if you don't have somebody next to you in the golf cart, I don't care what club you belong to. It's going to be a lonely 18 holes. You know, it's not fun." – Tom [35:47] “Change the budding addiction, the passive aggressive nature with your wife and kids that is destructive in the family, your financial irresponsibility, before you have to.” – Tom Our Guest Tom Hagerty is a seasoned business strategist, speaker, and author with over 45 years of executive leadership experience across multiple industries. He is the author of The Business of Relationships, a book that distills decades of wisdom into practical strategies for strengthening trust, communication, and collaboration in today’s workplace. Known for his sharp insights, straight talk, and a deep belief in the human side of business, Tom has helped countless organizations improve their performance by focusing on what truly matters: people. From the boardroom to the breakroom, he advocates for leadership that is transparent, participative, and grounded in authentic connection. Resources Tom Hagerty  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomhagerty0126/ Book: The Business of Relationships - Amazon 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

    39 min
  5. Productivity Smarts 106 - Healing Habits with Rebecca Renck

    JUN 17

    Productivity Smarts 106 - Healing Habits with Rebecca Renck

    What if chronic illness wasn't the end—but a new beginning? In this episode of Productivity Smarts, Gerald J. Leonard welcomes Rebecca Renck, author of Healing Habits: How to Help Your Body Heal Itself from Chronic Illness. Rebecca shares her transformative journey through Crohn’s disease and breast cancer, revealing how intentional lifestyle choices and healing habits empowered her to reclaim her health and purpose. Together, Gerald and Rebecca explore the connection between faith, holistic health, productivity, and identity. From decoding your body’s signals to detoxing your environment and managing stress with grounding techniques, this episode is packed with practical insights for living well—even when faced with adversity. Whether you’re navigating illness or just looking to live more mindfully, Rebecca’s story will inspire you to listen to your body, trust your inner wisdom, and create habits that support healing and happiness. What We Discuss [00:00:00] Introduction to Rebecca Recnk [00:04:01] Rebecca’s health journey and early decisions [00:10:25] Recognizing the body’s healing ability [00:13:13] Understanding and interpreting body signals [00:17:40] Modern life and digital detox [00:19:02] Role of intuition and de-stressing practices [00:21:55] Developing healing routines and rhythms [00:27:45] Managing cravings and addictions [00:29:57] Importance of routines for self-care [00:33:08] How to connect with Rebecca Renck Notable Quotes [09:01] “You have to make that hard stand. When you do, you start to create an identity around what you want to be.” – Rebecca [10:38] “The body wants to heal. There’s no reason to believe it can’t heal from disease too.” – Rebecca [25:41] “If I could tell anybody to do anything, it would be to get outside more. You know, sit in the sun without sunscreen on for a couple of minutes and, you know, just use the earth.” — Rebecca  [32:48] “Healing is a lifestyle. You can’t ever think that you're done.” – Rebecca Our Guest Rebecca Renck is the author of Healing Habits: How to Help Your Body Heal Itself from Chronic Illness, a book inspired by her journey through Crohn’s disease and breast cancer. She empowers readers to develop awareness, create healing routines, and trust their body’s natural wisdom. Through writing, coaching, and public speaking, she helps others explore holistic health through faith, self-awareness, and daily practice. Resources Rebecca Renck  Website - https://rebeccarenck.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-renck-2b0814329 Book: Healing Habits - https://rebeccarenck.com/healing-habits 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

    36 min
  6. Productivity Smarts 105 - Fashion's Stepsister, A Journey to Style with Gayla Bentley

    JUN 10

    Productivity Smarts 105 - Fashion's Stepsister, A Journey to Style with Gayla Bentley

    Do you ever stop to think about what your clothes are saying before you even speak? We’ve all heard that first impressions matter—but have you ever wondered if your outfit might be the silent ambassador standing between you and that elusive promotion? In this episode of Productivity Smarts, host Gerald J. Leonard sits down with Gayla Bentley, a fashion icon whose work has graced People Magazine, Oprah Magazine, and even Shark Tank. Gayla shares how personal style isn’t just about looking good—it’s a transformative tool for confidence, clarity, and productivity. From her early struggles as a "chubby tomboy" to becoming a sought-after stylist for Fortune 500 executives, Gayla reveals how mastering your wardrobe can save time, reduce stress, and elevate your professional and personal life.   Gerald and Gayla dive into practical tips for building a functional wardrobe, the psychology of first impressions, and how to thrive in remote work settings. Whether you’re a CEO or a college grad on a budget, Gayla’s insights will help you unlock the power of style to achieve your goals.  What We Discuss [02:05] Introduction to Gayla Bentley [05:08] Gayla Bentley's journey into fashion and what has made her successful [08:20] Mentoring and coaching as the HOV lane [12:06] Lifestyle chart as mentioned in Gayla's book [13:24] How style influences a person's individual productivity [18:43] Helping people discover their style without feeling overwhelmed by the economy [21:49] Breakthrough stories from clients [24:17] Remote work style: Balancing comfort and professionalism [26:21] Organizing your wardrobe: The key to consistent style [28:14] The importance of professional image consulting [29:13] Final thoughts and resources Notable Quotes [05:39] “I heard God say to me, don't worry, Gayla. I'm going to teach you how to dress yourself. And you're going to be an influence on how other people dress for the rest of your life.” — Gayla [08:23] “Go to the people that have the wisdom and you will be in that HOV lane. You're not going to reinvent the wheel. You have a question, find out who already answered it and get in touch with them.” — Gayla [14:05] “If you look confident at work and polished at work and well groomed at work, you are the first people they're going to look at for promotion.” — Gayla [18:07] “You only have one chance to make a first impression when you show up.” — Gayla [20:07] “Consistency is key. You can't go to work one day looking like GQ and the next day looking like a pool boy.” — Gayla Our Guest Gayla Bentley is a style expert and author who has transformed lives through fashion for over 30 years. From designing clothing lines to working with Fortune 500 executives, her work emphasizes that style is for everyone—regardless of size, status, or budget. Her book, Fashion’s Stepsister, offers a roadmap to build confidence, save time, and show up looking your best every day Resources Gayla Bentley  Website - https://www.gaylabentley.org/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaylabentley Book: Fashion's Stepsister, A Journey to Style: A Memoir - https://www.amazon.com/Fashions-Stepsister-Journey-Style-Memoir/dp/B0DNMV3G9S 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

    34 min
  7. Productivity Smarts 104 - The Philosopher’s Wrench with Larry Weingarten

    JUN 3

    Productivity Smarts 104 - The Philosopher’s Wrench with Larry Weingarten

    What if slowing down was the secret to speeding up success? In this episode of Productivity Smarts, host Gerald J. Leonard sits down with Larry Weingarten—licensed general contractor, hot water systems expert, and author of The Philosopher’s Wrench, a book that creatively teaches lessons that extend far beyond plumbing. With decades of experience and a passion for education, Larry shares how embracing patience, presence, and precision leads to better results—whether you're troubleshooting a water heater or navigating leadership challenges. Larry offers real-world stories that illustrate why slowing down is often the fastest way to success. From turning away unsafe jobs to mentoring at-risk youth, his approach is grounded in integrity and a desire to truly serve. Gerald and Larry explore how trust, focus, and long-term thinking can transform how we work and live. Larry's thoughtful philosophy offers timeless guidance to anyone looking to improve their productivity while staying true to their values. What We Discuss [00:00] Introduction to Larry Weingarten [05:34] The importance of slowing down [10:36] Philosophy of problem-solving [12:53] Case study of an impatient client [14:02] Innovative solutions for clients [16:03] Building trust with clients [19:12] Networking with other contractors [23:00] The importance of service [23:16] Lessons from animals [24:06] Applying the slowdown method [24:25] The power of presence [26:53] Building trust with clients [27:52] Commitment to fixing problems [28:10] Where to find Larry's work [32:48] Why listening deeply can be life-changing—for both sides Notable Quotes [02:45] “I’ve always liked taking things apart and then learning how to put them back together. I was the kid in the classroom that the teachers would call on to fix stuff.” — Larry  [05:39] “The key to troubleshooting is gathering up lots of information, you know, just absolutely hordes of it.” — Larry  [08:31] “You know, moving at a moderate pace keeps you safe. It keeps all your fingers on your hands.” — Larry  [17:36] “I got to be the plumber that saved them money, not just cost them money.” — Larry  [27:54] “I will not leave a job till it’s fixed. I just won’t.” — Larry  Our Guest Larry Weingarten is a licensed contractor, author, and educator who has worked on over 5,000 hot water systems. He’s a trusted figure in his field, not just for his technical mastery but for his unique blend of common sense, deep listening, and heartfelt service. His book The Philosopher’s Wrench: Using Creativity, Common Sense and Heart teaches lessons that apply far beyond plumbing. Resources Larry Weingarten Website -https://www.larryweingarten.com/ Blog – https://www.larryweingarten.com/blog Book – The Philosopher’s Wrench   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

    35 min
  8. Productivity Smarts 103 - A Working Man's Guide with Dr. Mark L. Teague, PhD

    MAY 27

    Productivity Smarts 103 - A Working Man's Guide with Dr. Mark L. Teague, PhD

    Ever feel like your problems are too big, too vague, too tangled to tackle? Dr. Mark L. Teague calls it “the blob”—that overwhelming mass of modern challenges we all face. In this powerful episode of Productivity Smarts, host Gerald J. Leonard sits down with Dr. Teague, economist, former finance executive, and author of A Working Man’s Guide, to reveal a game-changing approach: frame the problem before you fight it. Dr. Teague shares the strategy that helped him go from farmhand to PhD and Wall Street leadership: simplify the chaos, break it into components, and work against a frame, not a feeling. We also take a look at his Impact Index—a sharp diagnostic tool to evaluate whether someone’s ambition and capability align—and a deep observation at why building a life of abundant purpose is the ultimate productivity advantage. Learn how principled thinking, rooted in traditional values, leads not just to success—but to purpose. Let's dive in. What We Discuss [00:00] Introducing Dr. Mark L. Teague, PhD [04:01] The 3 core principles that shaped Dr. Teague [05:31] Why accepting life’s problems is the first step to real productivity [07:44] The power of the Scientific Method: Turning blobs into frames [11:06] Samuel Morse and the power of reframing problems [13:44] Building resilience in the age of AI, economic shifts, and overwhelm [17:07] The Impact Index: How ambition and competence drive real outcomes [23:22] Abundant purpose: Why fulfillment beats wealth every time [28:02] From managing money to managing meaning: Lessons for entrepreneurs and tradespeople [32:52] How values-driven leadership builds lasting business and family success [36:22] Holding fast to your North Star: The conversation that matters most [39:23] Where to find Dr. Teague and his book Notable Quotes [04:20] “Work hard, be honest, and be respectful. Those three things were expected—and you didn’t deviate.” — Dr. Teague [07:44] “Don’t work against the blob. Frame the problem, then work the frame.” — Dr. Teague [10:22] “Simplify. That’s the secret to all stress management.” — Dr. Teague [17:07] “Capability without ambition makes you dead weight. Ambition without capability makes you dangerous.” — Dr. Teague [25:48] “Build your life around the intangibles—and use those same principles to pursue the tangible.” — Dr. Teague [35:55] “If you put business before family, you're talking to a fool.” — Dr. Teague Our Guest Dr. Mark L. Teague is a former finance executive, PhD economist, entrepreneur, and author of A Working Man’s Guide. With deep roots in traditional values and decades of high-stakes leadership, Dr. Teague brings a fresh, practical perspective to productivity rooted in principle. His book delivers actionable tools and thought-provoking insights for anyone striving to lead a purpose-driven life and career. Resources Dr. Mark L. Teague, PhD Website - https://aworkingmansguide.com/ Facebook - https://m.facebook.com/DrMarkLTeague/ Book: A Working Man's Guide - https://www.amazon.com/Working-Mans-Guide-Strong-Values/dp/B0D9HYRPSP 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

    42 min
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5
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

Productivity Smarts is an audio podcast hosted by Gerald J. Leonard, a productivity expert who helps other professionals get more done. Each episode features an in-depth discussion or interview with top productivity experts, tips, and strategies to help you become more productive by leveraging neuroscience principles. Features: • Interviews with top productivity experts • Tips and strategies for getting more done • Interviews with people who are doing great things Benefits: • Learn how to get more done • Get inspired by others who are doing great things in their lives • Hear what they do to stay focused and motivated Want Free Personalized Coaching? Try My AI Neuro-Productivity Executive Coach GPT https://chatgpt.com/g/g-67f417d34dbc819187762515f7fb28ed-neuro-productivity-executive-coach-gpt A Symphony of Choices: https://amzn.to/3Keq3zx Growth Strategies: https://productivityintelligenceinstitute.com/mastermind/ KIVA: It's a loan, not a donation Join me in providing micro loans through Kiva that create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds Connect with Gerald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geraldjleonard Free Productivity Smarts Weekly Evaluation Worksheet https://go.productivityintelligenceinstitute.com/productivity-smarts-worksheet Free Workbook: Every Goal Is A Project, and Everyone Is A Project Manager https://go.productivityintelligenceinstitute.com/every-goal-is-a-project Discover How To Set Goals, Build A High-Performing Team, & Increase Productivity.... Starting Today!” https://workshop.productivityintelligenceinstitute.com/optin1666905303826?_ga=2.21012029.741858075.1668537790-242233139.1659493194 Learn more at www.productivitysmartspodcast.com

Information

  • Creator
    Gerald J. Leonard
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    110
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2023
  • Show Website
    Productivity Smarts

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