Claim OwnershipThe Productivity Show
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Asian Efficiency is the leading website on time management and productivity. Learn how to be efficient, get things done (GTD), and stay motivated.
618 Episodes
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In this episode, we dive into Katy Milkman’s “Copy & Paste” strategy—a powerful shortcut for behavior change. Instead of reinventing the wheel, learn how to identify “close match” role models and deliberately imitate their specific tactics. We explore the research showing why copying beats planning, share real-world examples from exercise to automation, and give you […]
Deep work isn’t just about willpower… it’s about strategy. In this episode, I’m breaking down the common mistakes that kill your focus, from poor energy management to environment design that works against you. Learn how to align your tasks with your natural rhythms and set realistic expectations so you can finally get the important things […]
Stop trying to build new habits from scratch. In this episode, we explore why upgrading your current routines is the secret to sustainable productivity. We dive into the science of the 1% rule, habit stacking, and energy management. Learn how to identify what’s already working and apply small, strategic tweaks (like the “Never Miss Twice” […]
When does your workday actually end—and who gets to decide? In a hybrid world where home and office blur together, it’s easy to feel like you’re always “on,” answering one last email at night and checking Slack before your feet hit the floor in the morning. That constant low-level pull can quietly drain your energy, […]
How do some people consistently turn raw ideas into real, finished work—while others stay stuck waiting for inspiration to strike? In this encore conversation, Thanh sits down with legendary creative entrepreneur and Parsons professor Jeffrey Madoff to unpack the mindset and structure behind sustainable creativity. From building a fashion company at 22 to producing campaigns […]
Why do goals fail while systems succeed? This productivity systems episode reveals how small structural changes create consistent progress without relying on motivation or willpower. Learn the “never skip twice” rule, build habit stacks that stick, and start creating the engine that powers your productivity every single day. Get Notion, now with Notion Agent at […]
Tired of the goal-chasing treadmill? This systems thinking episode reveals why goals often lead to “pre-success failure” and how building daily productivity systems creates lasting results. Learn to decompose complex tasks, create feedback loops, and make structural changes that transform your efficiency and build the ultimate form of consistency. Get Notion, now with Notion Agent […]
Struggling to balance multiple roles at work and home? This weekly planning episode shares practical time management strategies to help you stay on top of everything without feeling overwhelmed. Discover how to free up mental space, make time for deep work, and build flexibility into your schedule so you can thrive in all your responsibilities […]
Why do New Year’s resolutions fail by February? The answer lies in the psychology of fresh starts. In this productivity episode, we explore Katy Milkman’s research on the “Fresh Start Effect” and how psychological clean slates—like Mondays, birthdays, or a new notebook—can reset your identity and boost motivation. We explore how psychological clean slates—like Mondays, […]
Productive but still unfulfilled? Your weekly review might be tracking the wrong things. Most people focus on tasks and efficiency, but the most effective weekly planning focuses on values and direction. In this productivity episode, learn Scott Young’s values-based weekly review technique, use the “5 Whys” to connect tasks to deeper motivations, and apply Stephen […]
Struggling to enjoy the holidays without feeling rushed? The secret to a meaningful season isn’t doing more—it’s being more present. In this mindful productivity episode, discover why divided attention makes time feel shorter, how presence actually slows life down, and one simple technique to enjoy your holidays more without adding anything to your schedule. This […]
Feeling overwhelmed by digital clutter? In this episode, Thanh and Brooks share practical tips to organize your files, meeting notes, and photos across all your devices and cloud storage. Learn how to centralize your assets, create smart folder structures, use consistent naming conventions, and leverage AI tools for effortless organization. Discover the 3-2-1 backup strategy […]
Does your week tend to fill up before you’ve had a chance to decide what actually matters? Too often, we move from meeting to meeting and task to task, reacting rather than choosing, and then wonder why the week felt busy yet unproductive. The problem usually isn’t effort or discipline; it’s that the week was […]
1Have you ever felt like you’re constantly performing, but the real work happens behind the scenes? This episode dives into Michael Hyatt’s powerful concept of “Front Stage vs. Back Stage” work from his “Freedom Work” framework. We’ll explore how distinguishing between visible, high-impact tasks like delivering a presentation and essential, behind-the-scenes efforts like organizing travel […]
Discover the books that shaped my productivity philosophy and how their core lessons can transform your work and life. From mastering note-taking with the Zettelkasten method to understanding the power of sleep and identifying fake work, this episode shares actionable insights to help you get more done without sacrificing what truly matters. Get Notion, now […]
Feeling overwhelmed by your daily tasks? In this episode, we dive into practical, easy-to-implement automation strategies that will help you win back precious time every single day. Discover how small tweaks, from optimizing your browser to streamlining your morning routine, can lead to massive productivity gains. We’ll share actionable examples and personal insights to help […]
How often do your most productive breakthroughs happen when you’re off the clock? There’s a reason for that. In this episode, you’ll discover why the secret to sharper focus, better problem-solving, and more motivation might actually be found outside your usual workflow. A creative hobby—whether it’s a racket sport, photography, painting, or anything you genuinely […]
Ever wonder why some books quietly change your life while the big bestsellers barely move the needle? In this episode, we spotlight six underrated reads that never make the productivity “top 10” lists—but absolutely should. These are the books that have shaped how we think, plan, lead, and make decisions, even though they rarely get […]
This week marks a special moment—it’s Thanksgiving, and 10 years of The Productivity Show. In today’s short episode, I just want to say thank you. I’ll share a few reflections from the past decade and what I’m most excited about going forward. Consider this your personal thank-you note for being part of our journey. Life […]
Managers and team leaders, this episode is for you! We’re diving deep into actionable strategies to boost your productivity and empower your teams. Learn how to master communication, build high-performing teams, leverage automation, and optimize your personal workflow. We’ll share practical tips and real-world examples to help you get the important things done without sacrificing […]
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2 ads in a 6 minute video? Hard pass.
Very interesting approach on integrating the Gap analysis in goals. I found the examples very helpful.
rhe shows and topics are really good but boy, there is alot of fluff before you get to the point. not just the adds but alot of personal unrelated discussion. I suppose cutting this down and replacing it with answers to listeners' questions may be more interesting and valuable. keep up the good work though guys, this is one of my favorites.
Why does everything have to be about gender? Yeah, I'd like to be represented as a minority too. Are the female voices reaching out to you?
Claims he can play any song that he only heard once. Messes up the first note off a very well-known show's opening theme he heard thousands of times. ;p
This show always helps me stay or get back on track with my productivity. I appreciate the variety of topics and the base level up to advance level hacks and strategies that I can apply to my day.
Great episode
🙄🙄 listening and enjoying 🤩🤯🤯🎧🎧
very nice but the S sound is annoying me. could you please do something about it.
I finally found the way to have links back to emails on Outlook for Windows. Very nerdy and not so elegant but possible. I can send directions if you guys are interested on this subject. Thanks for the valuable advise.
This is one of those classic episodes I keep coming back again and again. Thanks for the valuable advise.