This episode of A Productive Conversation features Chris Dalla Riva, a musician, data analyst, and Senior Product Manager at Audiomack who bridges the gap between creativity and analytics. Chris joins me to discuss his book Uncharted Territory: What Numbers Tell Us About the Biggest Hit Songs and Ourselves.As part of his research, Chris listened to every Billboard Hot 100 number-one song—nearly 1,200 of them—tracking trends, rating songs, and discovering how randomness, technology, and taste shape what becomes a hit. We explore the intersection of numbers and nuance, how data can deepen our understanding of art, and what the patterns of pop music reveal about us.Six Discussion PointsThe origin of Chris’s experiment to listen to every Billboard number-one hitWhy Bob Dylan never topped the Hot 100—and what that says about luck and timingHow data, subjectivity, and quality intertwine when rating songsThe cyclical nature of musical trends, from movies to TikTokThe uneasy relationship between music and technology—from Auto-Tune to AIWhy the album format—and vinyl—still matter in a streaming worldThree Connection PointsCheck out Chris's newsletterBuy Chris's bookRead Mike's essay, The Sound of TimeChris and I cover a lot of ground in this conversation—from Bob Dylan’s surprising chart record to the influence of AI on modern music. If you’ve ever wondered what hit songs say about culture, creativity, and ourselves, this episode hits all the right notes.
This latest edition of our monthly PM Talks series dives into a topic that underpins nearly everything we do: trust. From trusting the moment you’re in to trusting the systems you build, Patrick Rhone and I explore how this single word quietly defines the way we live, work, and connect.In this conversation, we move from the personal—trusting ourselves, our instincts, and our attention—to the societal, exploring what happens when trust erodes in our institutions, technology, and even the tools meant to make life easier.Six Discussion PointsWhy trusting the moment enhances presence—and how presence strengthens trust.How trust manifests in everyday choices, like buying a car or managing a calendar.The connection between simplicity, minimalism, and building trustworthy systems.Why democracy, money, and even productivity all rest on unseen foundations of trust.The difference between a trusted system and your trusted system.How patience, presence, and attention preserve trust over time.Three Connection PointsPatrick's blog post on trustWatch The Big Short and/or Margin CallListen to Episode 596: Curiosity | PM Talks S2E3Trust isn’t static—it’s something we build, test, and sometimes rebuild. Whether you’re trying to trust your tools, your timing, or yourself, I hope this episode helps you see where trust already lives in your life—and where it might need a little reinforcement.
In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with James Kimmel Jr., JD — a Yale lecturer, lawyer, and leading researcher on the neuroscience of revenge. His new book, The Science of Revenge: Understanding the World’s Deadliest Addiction—and How to Overcome It, explores why our brains crave retaliation and how forgiveness can literally rewire us toward peace.Our conversation begins with a deeply personal story that shaped James’s life’s work and unpacks how revenge functions like an addiction — one fueled by pain, dopamine, and unchecked desire. What follows is a fascinating look at how our minds process grievance, why forgiveness is a neurological superpower, and how awareness can keep us from being consumed by cycles of anger and retaliation.Six Discussion PointsHow a violent act of bullying led James to study the neuroscience of revengeThe brain’s pain and reward circuits — and how they make revenge feel like a drugWhy grievances compound and can trigger impulsive reactionsThe distinction between self-defense, grief, and revengeHow forgiveness shuts down the brain’s pain network and restores self-controlWhy awareness, reflection, and tools like journaling can help break the revenge cycleThree Connection PointsGet James's bookVisit James's websiteCheck out the Miracle Court appThis conversation reminded me that the pause — that small, deliberate moment between grievance and reaction — can change everything. James’s work shows us that forgiveness isn’t about excusing others; it’s about freeing ourselves. I hope this episode helps you reflect on where small moments of release might lead to greater clarity, peace, and yes, productiveness.
In this episode, I sit down with Hannah Bookbinder, founder of AcademicAlly, LLC, and creator of the MyTOAD App—an innovative tool designed to help people manage time, organization, accountability, and focus. With over 25 years of experience supporting neurodivergent individuals, Hannah brings both expertise and empathy to the conversation.We explore how understanding one’s unique wiring leads to better productivity and a stronger sense of agency. Hannah’s insights reveal how reframing ADHD through curiosity, compassion, and structure can turn what feels like chaos into capability.Six Discussion PointsThe story behind the MyTOAD App and how it helps users manage time, organization, accountability, and focus.Why “Eat That Frog” doesn’t always work for neurodivergent minds—and what to do instead.How self-awareness and emotional check-ins can transform productivity habits.The role of journaling as both reflection and regulation—tailored to each individual’s comfort level.Rethinking ADHD: seeing it as a source of strength rather than a villain to defeat.How Hannah’s mission now extends beyond individuals to schools, businesses, and healthcare organizations.Three Connection PointsCheck out MyTOADAppRead the bookCheck out Hannah on InstagramThis conversation with Hannah reminded me that productivity isn’t about conformity—it’s about compatibility. When we learn to align with our wiring instead of resisting it, we uncover the capacity to work with time instead of against it. Whether you’re neurodivergent or simply human, there’s wisdom here worth dialing into.
In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Anthony Verdino — a licensed clinical social worker and author of CBT Simplified. Drawing from both his professional expertise and personal story of resilience, Anthony shares how cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be applied beyond the therapy room — into the way we think, act, and feel in our everyday lives.We explore how small shifts in thought and behavior can create profound changes in productivity and well-being, especially in a world that often mistakes busyness for progress. Anthony offers practical ways to align mindset with action and shows how reframing, acceptance, and self-care can transform not just how we work, but how we live.Six Discussion PointsThe core principles of CBT and how Anthony distilled them into a simple, visual modelHow self-monitoring and self-assessment connect directly to productivity and personal growthWhy reframing “should” into “could” turns guilt into empowermentThe danger of perfectionism and how embracing imperfection fosters balance and progressThe role of self-care and mindfulness in preventing burnout and building resilienceHow to make CBT principles second nature through consistent reflection and small, mindful actionsThree Connection PointsAnthony's websiteAnthony's bookMy TEDx Talk: “How to Stop Time”Our conversation reminded me how productivity and psychology share the same foundation: awareness and choice. Whether you’re managing your focus, emotions, or time, the work begins by observing your thoughts, reframing them, and then moving forward — not perfectly, but intentionally.
When you’re managing ADHD—or simply navigating the distractions of modern life—traditional productivity tools often fall short. My guest, Skye Waterson, knows this better than most. A former academic turned ADHD coach and founder of Unconventional Organisation, Skye has helped hundreds of professionals—from entrepreneurs to executives—craft systems that support their unique brains instead of fighting against them.In this conversation, Skye and I explore the science behind ADHD, the myths that persist around productivity, and how to design frameworks that meet you where you are. Whether you’ve been diagnosed, suspect you might have ADHD, or simply want to focus better in a world full of noise, this episode offers practical wisdom grounded in research and real experience.Six Discussion PointsThe turning point during Skye’s PhD that led to her ADHD diagnosis—and her shift from academia to coaching.Why common productivity systems like the Pomodoro Technique aren’t built for ADHD brains.How dopamine differences influence motivation, focus, and task initiation.The “Focus Formula” method Skye teaches high-achieving clients to identify what’s truly urgent and important.The role of transitions, zones, and small “dopamine boosters” in sustaining attention.How leadership and neurodiversity intersect—and why we need more research on ADHD in executive roles.Three Connection PointsUnconventional OrganisationThe ADHD Skills Lab PodcastEpisode 625: Jesse J. Anderson Talks About ADHD, Extra Focus, and Finding FlowTalking with Skye reminded me that productivity is never one-size-fits-all—it’s about alignment, not conformity. Her evidence-based yet deeply human approach to ADHD management offers lessons anyone can apply: simplify, start small, and give yourself permission to work with your brain, not against it.
This episode is the latest in our monthly series PM Talks, where Patrick Rhone and I dive into ideas that shape the way we approach work, time, and life. In this conversation, we explore the theme of clarity—how it shows up in our days, why it matters, and what can get in the way of it.Patrick and I both share personal stories—from missed football games to unexpected ISP issues—that highlight how clarity isn’t something we stumble upon, but something we need to cultivate. We talk about how structure and spontaneity coexist, and how clarity can be found even when life throws curveballs (or waves, as one Zen monk would put it).Six Discussion PointsWhy sports outcomes and emotional responses can affect clarity in daily lifeThe value of scaffolding (like time theming) to provide focus without rigidityLessons from the New Yorker article Can You Really Live One Day at a Time?Insights from Paul Loomans’ Time Surfing and how it relates to productivity practicesThe role of feelings: how they can cloud or create clarityThe practice of taking a “Clarity Day” to step back, reflect, and resetThree Connection PointsPatrick Rhone’s WebsiteThe Productivity Diet by Mike Vardy“Can You Really Live One Day at a Time?” – The New YorkerClarity isn’t about controlling every moment—it’s about navigating the waves of life with intention and awareness. I hope this episode gives you a chance to pause, reflect, and maybe even consider setting aside your own Clarity Day.
In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Jesse J. Anderson, a writer, speaker, coach, and ADHD advocate whose work has resonated with countless people navigating life with ADHD. He’s the author of Extra Focus: The Quick Start Guide to Adult ADHD and the voice behind the popular newsletter of the same name.Jesse brings a mix of humor, honesty, and lived experience to the conversation. We dive into the challenges of attention, time, and motivation—and the strategies that can help not only those with ADHD, but anyone who wants to work with their brain instead of against it.Six Discussion PointsHow Jesse’s diagnosis at 36 reframed his past struggles and opened new possibilities.The concept of the “clockless mind” and why time feels so different for those with ADHD.The oscillation between friction and flow—and how to recognize both.Jesse’s “4Cs” framework (Captivate, Create, Compete, Complete) for unlocking motivation.Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) and how it impacts relationships and self-perception.Why strategies like adding action verbs to tasks and “eating the ice cream first” can help create momentum.Three Connection PointsJesse's Extra Focus newsletterGet Jesse's BookListen to APC 164: Faster Than Normal with Peter ShankmanTalking with Jesse reminded me that productivity isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you live with ADHD or simply want to work more effectively, strategies like the 4Cs and reframing how you view time can shift the way you approach your day. I hope you’ll check out Jesse’s work and experiment with some of these ideas yourself.
On this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Leslie Grandy, author of Creative Velocity: Propelling Breakthrough Ideas in the Age of Generative AI. Leslie is a global product executive turned CEO advisor who helps organizations unlock creative thinking to accelerate growth. Her decades of leadership at Apple, Amazon, Best Buy, and T-Mobile give her a unique perspective on how creativity, technology, and leadership intersect.Our conversation explores why creativity isn’t limited to artists, how space and time fuel ideation, and what role emotional regulation plays in sustaining momentum. We also dig into how precision, AI, and frameworks can both hinder and propel breakthrough ideas. If you’ve ever doubted your own creativity—or wondered how to harness it consistently—you’ll want to hear this one.Six Discussion PointsWhy many professionals mistakenly believe they aren’t creative—and how to reframe that thinking.The power of space—whether walking, running, or even showering—in activating creative flow.Precision as both a driver and deterrent of creative velocity, depending on how it’s applied.Emotional regulation and equanimity as essential tools for sustaining creativity without burnout.How to think about velocity beyond speed—focusing on predictability, quality, and intentional triggers.Using AI as a creative collaborator through structured frameworks to expand possibilities without chaos.Three Connection PointsGet Leslie's bookWatch John Cleese’s classic talk on creativityCheck out NotebookLMThis conversation with Leslie reminded me that creativity isn’t an exclusive club—it’s a capacity we all share, provided we give ourselves the time, space, and intention to use it. Whether you’re leading a team, writing your next book, or simply looking to bring more meaning to your daily choices, Leslie’s insights on creative velocity offer a clear path forward.
I had the chance to sit down with Neil Ghosh, a seasoned executive whose work has spanned the nonprofit, government, philanthropic, and private sectors. He’s also the author of Do More Good: Inspiring Lessons from Extraordinary People, a book filled with stories of leaders, visionaries, and everyday people who embody the power of empathy, courage, and action.In our conversation, Neil and I dove into the importance of perspective, why empathy isn’t a “soft” skill but a strategic one, and how small actions can have extraordinary impact. We explored how his upbringing in Kolkata shaped his worldview, the lessons he learned from people like John McCain and Shimon Peres, and why legacy is something you influence—but never fully control.Six Discussion PointsWhy doing more good is different from simply doing more.The value of travel—both near and far—in broadening empathy and perspective.Lessons from John McCain about honoring principles and bridging divides.The role of humility and how serving with it can reshape leadership.How listening deeply—not just hearing—creates space for meaningful change.Why legacy is less about control and more about the small, consistent actions we leave behind.Three Connection PointsNeil’s book: Do More Good5 Steps Anyone Can Take to “Do More Good” and Make a Lasting Impact | Success MagazineYour Time is Not Thine: Rethinking “Know Thy Time”Conversations like this remind me that productivity isn’t about output for its own sake—it’s about impact. Neil’s perspective reinforces the idea that empathy, humility, and legacy aren’t separate from our work, but central to it. I hope this episode leaves you inspired to do not just more, but more good.
This episode is the latest in our monthly PM Talks series, and Patrick Rhone and I dive into the idea of connection—what it means, how it shows up in unexpected ways, and why it’s such a powerful force in our lives. From sports teams and fandoms to faith, empathy, and even the role AI can play in everyday decisions, we explore how connection shapes the way we live, work, and relate to the world.As always, the conversation is a mix of personal stories, practical reflections, and thoughtful insights. It’s one of those talks that started in one place (football fandom, of all things) and wound its way toward something bigger—how our connections help us build meaning, resilience, and compassion in a busy, noisy world.Six Discussion PointsHow fandom and sports teams spark lifelong connections—sometimes for surprising reasons.Why values strengthen or weaken our bonds, whether with people, communities, or organizations.The role empathy and compassion play as natural outcomes of genuine connection.How faith, rituals, and shared traditions anchor identity and belonging.The importance of questioning what we connect to and why, especially in daily life.How tools like AI can reduce decision fatigue and help free us up for deeper connections.Three Connection PointsPatrick's WebsiteThe Fundamentals with David Robinson(s)A conversation with Martin Sheen and Rick Steves on the value of travel and "The Way"At its heart, this episode reminds us that connection is about much more than shared interests—it’s about empathy, values, and the choices we make every day. I hope you find it as thought-provoking to listen to as it was for us to record.
In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Chris Ducker—serial entrepreneur, bestselling author, and longtime friend—to talk about his latest book, The Long Haul Leader: 10 Strategies to Work Smarter, Live Better, and Achieve Lasting Success. Chris has spent over two decades building, buying, and selling businesses, while mentoring leaders worldwide.Our conversation goes beyond business tactics. Chris shares candid stories of burnout, rebuilding, and how energy—not time—is the most valuable asset for sustainable success. From the importance of patience to the role of hobbies in leadership, this episode offers insight into what it really takes to thrive for the long haul.Six Discussion PointsWhy hustle is a season, not a lifestyleThe lessons Chris learned from battling burnout—twiceWhy energy is more valuable than time for leadersThe art of letting go: selling businesses and focusing on what mattersHow patience, adaptability, and presence shape long-term leadershipWhy hobbies and creative outlets are vital to performance and recoveryThree Connection PointsGet Chris's Book: The Long Haul LeaderThe Long Haul Leader SummitChris's websiteChris’s story is a reminder that success isn’t just about building businesses—it’s about building sustainability into your life and work. The principles he shares in The Long Haul Leader apply whether you’re running a company, leading a team, or simply trying to create a healthier balance for yourself.
In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I welcome Ben Amos—video strategist, producer, international speaker, and author of Engage: The Definitive Guide to Video Strategy for Business. Ben has helped brands and entrepreneurs around the globe cut through the noise and connect with their audiences through intentional video.We dig into why strategy must come before tactics, how to identify your ideal audience, and the real role video can play in building relationships that convert. This isn’t about shiny equipment or the latest platform—it’s about clarity, focus, and showing up with purpose.Six Discussion PointsWhy the pandemic accelerated the adoption and acceptance of videoThe Sun Tzu quote that shapes Ben’s approach: “Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat”How to define your audience with a singular avatar—and why that mattersSetting clear goals for each video in alignment with the customer journeyThe seven elements of video strategy and why production comes lastPractical tips for repurposing podcasts and long-form content into impactful short videosThree Connection PointsEngage: The Definitive Guide to Video Strategy for BusinessBen's websiteEngage Video Marketing PodcastTalking with Ben reminded me that video doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With a strategy-first mindset, it becomes less about keeping up with trends and more about connecting with the right people at the right time. Whether you’re starting fresh or rethinking your current approach, Ben’s insights are the kind that can change how you view video in your work.
In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Michael Timms—TEDx speaker, leadership consultant, and author of How Leaders Can Inspire Accountability. This conversation is a part of our ongoing exploration into the habits that drive not just productivity, but the kind of leadership that inspires lasting impact.Michael unpacks how accountability is often misunderstood and misused—weaponized as blame rather than cultivated as ownership. We explore what it means to truly support people to be accountable, the distinction between leadership and management, and the systems thinking leaders must embrace to avoid finger-pointing and foster real results.Six Discussion PointsWhy “holding people accountable” is the wrong approach—and what to say insteadThe critical distinction between leadership and managementHow self-awareness and humility form the foundation of great leadershipWhat journaling, feedback, and asking for advice all have in commonThe three habits of inspiring accountability—and why they work in harmonySystems thinking: how leaders can engineer solutions that prevent future issuesThree Connection PointsHow Leaders Can Inspire AccountabilityMichael's TEDx Talk – How to Claim Your Leadership PowerWhy Reading Leadership Books will Boost Your ProductivityThis conversation with Michael was a powerful reminder that the best leaders don’t point fingers—they build frameworks. If you're looking to lead with more clarity, humility, and purpose, I highly recommend picking up his book and watching his TEDx talk. True accountability isn’t about control—it’s about connection.
This episode is the latest in our monthly PM Talks series, where I’m joined by my friend Patrick Rhone to explore timeless ideas around productivity, creativity, and everything in between. In this conversation, we take a deep dive into what it really means to be creative—especially when you're busy, overwhelmed, or stuck in perfectionism.We unpack how constraints can fuel creativity, how time and space are both essential and elusive, and why imperfection might be your creative superpower. There’s a lot of riffing, real talk, and reflection in this one—and if you’ve felt like your creative well is running dry, this might be the refill you’ve been waiting for.Six Discussion PointsThe relationship between speed, structure, and creativityWhy constraints can actually enhance creativity (yes, really)John Cleese’s insight: creativity requires both time and spaceHow perfectionism can sabotage creative flowTurning mundane tasks into creative opportunitiesThe importance of being your own audience—and knowing what’s “for you”Three Connection PointsPatrick’s WebsiteRick Rubin's The Creative Act: A Way of Being"The creative process needs space—not just time." Read 50 more lessons I've learned here.This episode is a reminder that creativity isn’t just for artists—it’s for anyone trying to make something meaningful with their time. Whether you’re juggling routines, deadlines, or just trying to show up a little more intentionally each day, the ideas we explore here can help unlock creative momentum—even in life’s most constrained moments.
Brian Tracy returns to A Productive Conversation to mark the launch of the 4th Edition of Eat That Frog!, the productivity classic that has helped millions worldwide stop procrastinating and get more done. This updated edition includes a new chapter on the Law of Three, enhanced tools, and a built-in discussion and action guide — making it more relevant than ever in a world filled with distractions and overwhelm.In this bonus episode, Brian and I dive deep into what has (and hasn’t) changed since the original book’s release, how people can adapt the “eat the frog” principle to their unique rhythms (yes, night owls included), and why self-discipline is the key to self-esteem — and ultimately, success.Six Discussion PointsWhy now was the right time for a 4th Edition of Eat That Frog! — and what’s new insideHow the definition of the “frog” has held steady, even as the world has changedBrian’s insights on habit formation and why bad habits don’t go away — they get replacedThe role of self-discipline in building confidence, clarity, and resultsHow prioritization is even more important today — and how the “Law of Three” can helpWhy you should listen to your heart, trust your gut, and do more of what matters mostThree Connection PointsEat That Frog! 4th Edition on AmazonBrian Tracy’s WebsiteEpisode 351: Eating Frogs with Brian TracyIt’s always an honour to speak with Brian Tracy — and this conversation was no exception. Whether you're a longtime fan of Eat That Frog! or discovering it for the first time, this episode is packed with timeless advice and fresh insights to help you sharpen your focus, overcome procrastination, and move toward your goals with clarity and confidence.
In the latest episode, I sit down with Rob Shallenberger—CEO of Becoming Your Best Global Leadership and one of the world’s foremost authorities on productivity and time management. Rob’s background is as dynamic as it is inspiring: from flying F-16s and serving as an Advance Agent for Air Force One to training Fortune 500 companies and governments alike.We focus on the updated second edition of his bestselling book Do What Matters Most, diving deep into the transformative power of pre-week planning, the productivity quotient, and why it’s crucial to schedule your priorities rather than just prioritize your schedule. Rob’s mission is clear—help people lead lives by design, not by default.Six Discussion PointsHow task saturation leads to misprioritization—and how to combat itRob’s four-step pre-week planning system and how it creates peace and balanceThe productivity quotient: why aiming for 70–80% is the sweet spotReal-life stories that show how planning changes lives—including generational impactHow Rob's military background shaped his approach to time and leadershipThe role of AI in planning—why it’s a tool, not a replacement for human intuitionThree Connection PointsDo What Matters Most – Second Edition (Amazon)Rob’s Planner Tools and ResourcesBecoming Your Best WebsiteThis conversation with Rob left me both inspired and affirmed in my belief that quality productivity stems from intentional design. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or stuck in reactive mode, Rob’s framework provides both structure and flexibility. I encourage you to test out his pre-week planning approach—just four weeks can make a meaningful difference.
In this very special "Ask Mike Anything" edition of the podcast, the tables turn. TimeCrafting Trust Premium member and all-around thoughtful guy Tim O’Hare steps in to host and ask me questions submitted by listeners—and some of his own. From the value of journaling to the nuances of urgency, we explore what it truly means to right the ship when your time management feels off course.This is a raw and reflective episode, recorded live with audience interaction. We talk through everything from tech transitions and app overload to the dangers of measuring productivity purely by numbers. If you've ever felt like you know what to do but still can’t quite get it done, there’s something here for you.Six Discussion PointsWhy journaling is my go-to tool for daily course correction—and why it’s easier than most people thinkHow to close the gap between vision and reality using urgency, importance, and thoughtful task breakdownNavigating forced software transitions without losing your workflow (or your mind)How AI can help (or hurt) your attention and task clarity, depending on how you use itHow to make progress on tasks you’re procrastinating—even if you "know better"Why I focus more on productiveness than productivity, and how to measure what really mattersThree Connection PointsMonk Manual (GET 10% OFF)Watch the recording of this episode on YouTubeTim's BlogWhether you’re new to TimeCrafting or a longtime practitioner, this conversation highlights what so many of us wrestle with: the difference between knowing what to do and actually doing it. If you’ve been stuck, scattered, or just seeking clarity, I hope these answers light a way forward.
What does it mean to truly listen to your intuition—and why is that more vital than ever in today’s overstimulated world? In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I’m joined by Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir: Icelandic thought leader, author, and director of the documentary InnSæi: The Power of Intuition. Her new book, InnSæi: Icelandic Wisdom for Turbulent Times, explores the art and science of tapping into your deepest knowing—and how to protect it from modern noise.We discuss the Icelandic concept of “InnSæi,” which translates to “the sea within,” and unpack what it looks like to live and work in alignment with that quiet inner compass. From managing burnout to navigating complexity with grace, Hrund’s insights offer a refreshing call to reconnect with the deeper wisdom already within us.Six Discussion PointsWhat “InnSæi” really means—and why it goes far beyond the word “intuition”How to recognize and rebuild trust in your own judgmentThe danger of becoming biased against your own intelligenceWhy attention is the key to accessing intuition (and how to protect it)How journaling reveals patterns that intuition already sensesFinding alignment in a world that demands speed, certainty, and resultsThree Connection PointsWatch InnSæi: The Power of IntuitionHrund’s WebsiteListen to APC Episode 475: Megan Hyatt Miller talks about Minding Your MindsetThis conversation with Hrund reminded me how easy it is to lose track of our inner compass in the noise of modern life—and how powerful it can be when we stop, breathe, and listen to the quiet voice within. Her work beautifully bridges the poetic and the practical. I hope it helps you, as it did me, recalibrate what productivity really means.
What if “fun” isn’t the opposite of “work”—but the missing ingredient? In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Bree Groff, workplace culture expert and author of Today Was Fun: A Book About Work (Seriously). We dig into how play, permission, and presence can transform not only the way we work—but the way we live.Bree draws on her deep experience guiding Fortune 500 leaders through complex organizational change to offer a refreshingly human perspective on professionalism, productivity, and yes, pajama pants. This is more than a talk about workplace dynamics—it’s a conversation about reclaiming your days.Six Discussion PointsWhy wishing away the workweek is wishing away your lifeHow “fun” at work is often less about ping-pong tables and more about permissionThe myth of performative professionalism (and the case for stretchy pants)The role of novelty, creativity, and risk in making work feel meaningfulEnvironment as a silent force shaping our work habits and cultureHow a simple question—“Was today fun?”—can reframe your entire lifeThree Connection PointsBree’s WebsiteBree's SubstackEpisode 470 – Mike Rucker talks about The Fun HabitTalking with Bree reminded me that the best kind of productivity—the kind I advocate for—is rooted in presence, play, and people. Her perspective is a timely nudge toward joy, and Today Was Fun is a book I’ll keep close for those days when the calendar feels heavier than it should. I hope this conversation lightens yours.
Larry Jones
I got a bit lost in the talk about sports, but that's just me
Stu Cook
I swear this Greg guy seems to like the sound of his own opinions. He says a lot without really saying a lot on this subject. No thanks. 😴💤
Stu Cook
intentionally writing "a crappy first draft"? That's an interesting idea and one for me to consider within my writing.
Stu Cook
Another good episode with some good tips for making the most of life right where you are, even if it's not where you want to be today.
Stu Cook
Good content. 👍 We all have 24 hours in our day and it's more a case of working SMARTER than harder if we want to get stuff done.