I’m excited to welcome Duncan Wardle to the show to discuss his new book, The Imagination Emporium: The Creative Tools to Change the Way You Think. Duncan is a former Head of Innovation and Creativity at Disney, a global speaker, and an expert in unlocking human imagination. His book presents practical tools for breaking free from conventional thinking and fostering creativity in work and life.

In this conversation, we cover:

• Reawakening Creativity: Duncan explains why many adults believe they aren’t creative and how to reclaim the curiosity and imagination we had as children.
• The Power of Play: He shares exercises designed to shift thinking patterns, open new mental pathways, and make creativity more accessible to everyone.
• Yes, And vs. No, Because: Duncan introduces the mindset shift that can turn small ideas into big ones and create a culture of innovation.
• Breaking Free from Mental Ruts: How to identify and escape “rivers of thinking” that limit problem-solving and fresh ideas.
• Lessons from Disney: Drawing from his time at Disney, Duncan reveals how fostering an environment of creativity led to some of the company’s most innovative projects.

Duncan’s insights will inspire you to think differently, embrace playfulness, and use creative tools to generate groundbreaking ideas in any field.

Learn more about Duncan and his work at TheImaginationEmporium.com, and find The Imagination Emporium wherever books are sold.

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I’m excited to welcome Debra Eckerling to the show to discuss her new book, 52 Secrets for Goal Setting and Goal Getting: How to Stay Focused, Grow Your Network, and Get More Done in Less Time. Debra is a goal-setting expert, author, and the creator of the DEB Method, which helps individuals and organizations define, plan, and achieve their goals.

In this conversation, we cover:

• The Power of Clarity in Goal-Setting: Debra explains why knowing what you don’t want is just as important as knowing what you do want, and how that clarity can shape better decisions.
• Visualization as a Productivity Tool: She shares how mental imagery and positive expectation can improve focus, motivation, and long-term goal achievement.
• Building Resilience in the Face of Challenges: Debra highlights the importance of endurance and perseverance, offering strategies to navigate obstacles without losing momentum.
• The Five P’s of Goal-Getting: She introduces her framework of Purpose, Passion, Persistence, Perseverance, and Puppy Love, emphasizing the need for a strong support system and joy along the way.
• Breaking Goals into Achievable Steps: Debra discusses the importance of tracking progress, celebrating wins, and using a flexible approach to stay aligned with long-term goals.

Debra’s insights make goal-setting feel practical and accessible, whether you’re looking to make small changes or tackle big aspirations. This episode is packed with actionable advice to help you stay focused, motivated, and on track.

Learn more about Debra and her work at TheDebMethod.com, and find 52 Secrets for Goal Setting and Goal Getting wherever books are sold.

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This week, I’m excited to welcome Tyler Moore, also known as Tidy Dad, to the show to discuss his new book, Tidy Up Your Life: Rethinking How to Organize, Declutter, and Make Space for What Matters. Tyler is a teacher, writer, and advocate for creating intentional, organized spaces that support well-being. Through his Tidy Dad brand, he shares practical strategies for simplifying life and focusing on what truly matters.

In this conversation, we cover:

• The Birth of Tidy Dad: Tyler shares how a personal turning point led him to embrace tidying and organization as a means to regain control over his life.
• Tidying as a Mental and Physical Process: The book is divided into two key sections—tidying up your mind and tidying up your space. Tyler explains why internal clarity is just as important as external organization.
• The Power of Just Enough: Instead of strict minimalism, Tyler introduces the idea of finding “just enough” to create balance and space for what truly matters.
• Breaking Big Tasks into Manageable Steps: He discusses how breaking overwhelming projects into smaller steps leads to sustainable, lasting change.
• Balancing Family, Work, and Home Responsibilities: Tyler shares insights on how his family collaborates to maintain an organized, functional living space and how these principles extend beyond the home.

Tyler’s approach is relatable and practical, making organization feel achievable rather than overwhelming. Whether you’re looking to declutter your home, streamline your mental load, or establish sustainable routines, this episode is packed with insights to help you tidy up your life in a way that works for you.

Learn more about Tyler and his work at thetidydad.com, and find Tidy Up Your Life wherever books are sold. If you’re ready to create more space for what matters, this episode is a must-listen!

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I’m excited to welcome Dr. Mithu Storoni to the show to discuss her new book, Hyperefficient: Optimize Your Brain to Transform the Way You Work. Dr. Storoni is a physician, researcher, and expert in neuroscience and performance optimization. Her latest book challenges conventional productivity methods and introduces a brain-based approach to working smarter, not harder.

In this conversation, we cover:

• Redefining Efficiency: Dr. Storoni explains the difference between traditional efficiency (doing more in less time) and hyperefficiency (maximizing cognitive performance by working in alignment with brain rhythms).
• The Brain’s Gears: Just like a car engine, our brains operate in different gears suited for different tasks. She breaks down how to shift gears effectively to optimize focus, creativity, and deep thinking.
• The Role of AI in Cognitive Work: With AI handling more routine tasks, our roles are shifting toward high-level problem-solving and innovation. Dr. Storoni explores how to harness AI while improving our brain’s ability to think critically and creatively.
• Avoiding Cognitive Overload: The brain cannot sustain continuous, high-intensity work. She shares strategies for managing cognitive fatigue, including working in focused bursts and structuring tasks based on brain function.
• Harnessing Natural Brain Rhythms: Understanding when to tackle deep work versus routine tasks can dramatically improve productivity. Dr. Storoni shares research-backed insights into leveraging biological prime times for peak performance.

This conversation is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to optimize their mental energy, prevent burnout, and work with their brain rather than against it.

Learn more about Dr. Storoni and her work at mithustoroni.com. Grab the book Hyperefficient: Optimize Your Brain to Transform the Way You Work here.

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This week, I’m excited to welcome Ben Orlin to the show to discuss his new book, Math for English Majors: A Human Take on the Universal Language. Ben is a math educator, writer, and the creator of Math with Bad Drawings, a blog and book series that makes math more accessible, humorous, and relatable. His latest book approaches mathematics as a language—one that everyone can learn, even those who’ve struggled with it in the past.

In this conversation, we cover:

• Math as a Language: Ben explains how understanding math as a form of communication can help break down barriers to learning and make it more intuitive.
• Where Students Get Stuck: Ben shares key moments where people tend to disconnect from math, such as fractions and algebra, and offers insights on how to reframe those challenges.
• The Concept of Stuckness: Drawing from his teaching experience, Ben discusses how learning to sit with and work through being “stuck” is crucial not just in math but in any problem-solving endeavor.
• Breaking the Math Stigma: Many people carry negative experiences with math from school. Ben talks about how reframing math through storytelling, humor, and play can make it more engaging and approachable.
• Curiosity as a Learning Tool: Instead of focusing on getting the “right” answer, Ben emphasizes how curiosity and exploration can make math more enjoyable and meaningful.

Ben’s work challenges the idea that math is only for “math people” and instead presents it as a tool for creativity, problem-solving, and deeper understanding. Whether you’ve loved math or avoided it at all costs, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on how to engage with numbers in a more human way.

Learn more about Ben and his work at MathWithBadDrawings.com and follow him on social media @MathWithBadDrawings. Math for English Majors is available now wherever books are sold. If you’ve ever felt intimidated by math, this conversation is for you!

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I’m excited to welcome back Ian Morgan Cron to the show to discuss his new book, The Fix: How the Twelve Steps Offer a Surprising Path of Transformation for the Well-Adjusted, the Down-and-Out, and Everyone In Between. Ian is a bestselling author, psychotherapist, Enneagram expert, and host of the Typology podcast. His latest book explores how the Twelve Steps, originally created for addiction recovery, offer profound transformation for anyone, regardless of whether they identify as an addict.

In this conversation, we cover:

• The Universal Nature of Addiction: Ian explains how addiction isn't limited to substances but extends to workaholism, social media, perfectionism, and more. He emphasizes that everyone is on the addiction continuum in some way.
• The Twelve Steps for Everyone: Ian walks us through how the Twelve Steps, originally written by Bill Wilson in 1939, serve as a framework for personal growth, self-awareness, and healing.
• Breaking Free from Destructive Patterns: Highlighting his own recovery journey, Ian shares how recognizing self-destructive behaviors and working the steps has transformed his life.
• The Power of Community in Healing: Ian discusses the importance of connection, support, and accountability in overcoming addiction and building a more fulfilling life.
• A Practical Guide to Transformation: The Fix isn’t just for those struggling with addiction—it’s a roadmap for anyone who wants to live with greater clarity, integrity, and joy. Ian also introduces The Fix Workbook, a companion guide to help readers apply the Twelve Steps to their own lives.

Whether you’ve considered the Twelve Steps before or are hearing about them in a new light, The Fix offers a compelling case for why they can be life-changing for anyone.

Learn more about Ian and his work at IanMorganCron.com

Listen to Ian's previous appearances here:

• Ian Morgan Cron on The Enneagram 101
• Ian Morgan Cron on Overcoming the Productivity Hangups of Each Enneagram Type

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This week, I’m excited to welcome back Melissa Urban to the show to discuss her new book, The New Whole30: A Fresh Approach to Food and Life. Melissa Urban is the co-creator and CEO of the Whole30 program, a New York Times bestselling author, and a respected voice in the wellness community. Her new book reintroduces the Whole30 program with updates based on recent science and her personal evolution, making the program more inclusive, empathetic, and accessible.

In this conversation, we cover:

• The Whole30 Framework: Melissa revisits the Whole30 as a 30-day elimination and reintroduction program designed to help individuals identify how foods affect their health and well-being. It’s not a diet or detox but a personalized tool to find your "food freedom."
• The Evolution of Whole30: Melissa explains the updates in the new book, including changes in tone and scientific understanding, as well as new accommodations for vegetarians, vegans, and plant-based eaters.
• Boundaries and Wellness: Drawing from her book The Book of Boundaries, Melissa explores the role of boundaries in improving relationships and mental health, showing how the Whole30 is a “boundary bootcamp” for better self-awareness and confidence.
• Emotional and Psychological Challenges: Melissa shares insights on navigating emotional attachments to food, managing social dynamics, and overcoming fears related to dietary changes. Her empathetic approach acknowledges these challenges while offering practical solutions.
• Why 30 Days Matters: The Whole30’s duration strikes a balance between accessibility and effectiveness, helping participants experience life-changing benefits in energy, sleep, digestion, and mental clarity, with a gradual reintroduction phase to solidify learnings.

Learn more about Melissa Urban and the Whole30 at Whole30.com

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This week, I’m thrilled to welcome back Dr. Michael Breus to the show to discuss his new book, Sleep, Drink, Breathe: Simple Daily Habits for Long-Term Health. Dr. Breus, also known as “The Sleep Doctor,” is a clinical psychologist, board-certified sleep specialist, and a bestselling author. Known for making complex health topics approachable, his latest book simplifies wellness into three fundamental habits: sleep, hydration, and proper breathing.

In this conversation, we cover:

• The Domino Effect of Wellness: Dr. Breus explains his concept of “dominoes of wellness,” focusing on foundational habits that impact overall health. He emphasizes starting with simple yet impactful actions to build momentum toward lasting change.
• Sleep Strategies for Better Rest: Highlighting his expertise, Dr. Breus shares tips for improving sleep quality, addressing common misconceptions, and providing actionable advice for tackling insomnia and other sleep challenges.
• Hydration Myths and Insights: From the right way to drink water to calculating your ideal daily intake, Dr. Breus clears up misconceptions and introduces a practical formula for staying hydrated without overloading your body.
• The Power of Breathwork: Contrary to popular belief, many people breathe inefficiently. Dr. Breus details simple techniques to improve oxygen intake, reduce stress, and even enhance sleep quality.
• Making Wellness Achievable: The book’s three-week plan provides an easy entry point for anyone looking to adopt healthier habits, with practical tips like setting daily reminders to stay on track.

Dr. Breus also shares his thoughts on the impact of caffeine, the truth about melatonin, and the science behind tools like the Time Shifter app, which helps users adapt to jet lag and shift work schedules.

• Learn more about Dr. Breus and his work at TheSleepDoctor.com, where you can also take his chronotype quiz and subscribe to his newsletter for weekly wellness tips.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Navage Sinus Wash

Timeshifter App

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This week we are joined by productivity expert Mike Vardy for Parton of a two part series on the A to Z of Productivity.

Mike's experience spans years and includes authoring books, creating courses, and hosting his own podcast, "A Productive Conversation." He's a seasoned productivity strategist known for his unique approach to time management and focus techniques.

You can catch Part 2 here: https://mikevardy.com/podcast575/

Or watch both parts here:

1. Part 1: https://youtube.com/live/5QCJcqTtfPQ 
2. Part 2: https://youtube.com/live/wX4YZFLiH6g 

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This week I welcome back Kendra Adachi to the show to talk about her new book The PLAN: Manage Your Time Like a Lazy Genius. Kendra Adachi is one part systems expert, and one part permission giver. As The Lazy Genius, she aims to help you be a genius about the things that matter and lazy about the things that don't. She is the host of The Lazy Genius Podcast, author of The Lazy Genius Way.

In this conversation we talk about:

• The Plan Framework: Kendra introduces her innovative framework: Prepare, Live, Adjust, and Notice. It’s a holistic approach to living authentically in the current season, without the stress of rigid future goals.
• Flexibility over Rigid Plans: Emphasizing the importance of flexibility, Kendra discusses the significance of being able to pivot and adjust plans without guilt, accepting life's unpredictability as part of the journey.
• Small Tasks, Big Impact: Highlighting the "lazy genius principle," Kendra encourages starting small and focusing on manageable tasks, integrating kindness and patience into your planning process for a more fulfilling life.

Make sure to check out one of our sponsors: https://try.lingoda.com/beyond50 and use promo code '50Beyond'

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• The Lazy Genius Collective

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This week, I'm revisiting a conversation with Gillian Tietz. Given the topic and the time of year, I felt it was the perfect moment to bring this discussion back to light. Gillian is a biochemist, educator, and entrepreneur who, after struggling with alcohol moderation, found productivity and success in sobriety. She is the host of the Sober Powered Podcast and works as a biochemist in the Boston area. When she quit drinking in 2019, Gillian dedicated herself to understanding alcohol's influence on the brain and its role in addiction.

In this episode, Gillian shares her personal journey of recognizing the negative impact of drinking on her productivity and confidence, and how sobriety has led to numerous accomplishments. We explore the physiological and psychological effects of alcohol, the importance of self-awareness, and the potential benefits of taking breaks from both alcohol and caffeine.

Gillian also provides resources for those curious about exploring sobriety, offering insights into the benefits and challenges of the popular "Dry January" movement, which has gained significant traction among young professionals. We close the episode with reflections on personal habits and making informed decisions to build a healthier and more productive future.

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