Episodes

  • Should I Quit Social Media? A Digital Marketing Expert’s Answer (You’ll Be Surprised) - Corey Perlman

    Should I Quit Social Media? A Digital Marketing Expert’s Answer (You’ll Be Surprised) - Corey Perlman
    Nov 4 2025
    Should I quit social media? A debate with a social media & digital marketing expert - With Corey Perlman What if the secret to winning at social media is barely being on it at all? Brian debates social media expert Corey Perlman, who runs a digital marketing agency but doesn't even have Instagram on his phone—and that contradiction is exactly the point. Turns out the productivity drain isn't social media itself; it's the doom scrolling that's stealing 40 minutes of your day while you pretend you're "networking." Corey drops the truth bomb that influencer metrics and business metrics are completely different games, yet most professionals are playing by Instagram rules and wondering why they feel like failures when seven people like their post.This conversation gets practical fast: discover the "rented land vs. owned land" framework that'll save you from platform catastrophe, learn why your LinkedIn company page isn't dead (just neglected), and find out exactly how to be authentically present online without pressing a single button yourself. Brian and Corey tackle the hypocrite's dilemma head-on—can you tell people to quit social while still posting yourself?—and land on a game-changing distinction that lets you have your cake and eat it too. You'll get the app blocker that nukes newsfeeds while keeping connections alive, the 15-minute commenting strategy that builds real relationships without the scroll spiral, and the truth about which platforms actually matter for your business (hint: stop chasing TikTok if you're selling B2B).If you're trapped between FOMO and burnout, convinced you need social media but hate what it's doing to your brain, this episode hands you the escape hatch. The show notes include all the tools to take back control starting today.References In This EpisodeCorey Perlman – Impact Social Media – Corey's LinkedIn profile and Impact Social Media websiteKey Resources:Authentically Social – Corey's book on being authentic on social media for businessCorey's Instagram – @CoreyPerlmanSpeaksCoreyPerlman.com – Corey's main websiteBrian's Resources:Social Media Addiction with Tech Hacks to Fix It – Brian's blog post with tools to combat social media time wasteShould I Quit Social Media? A Debate With A Focus Expert - Penny Zenker – The primer discussion before this debateBrian's TEDx Talk on Time Management – His signature presentation on productivityTools & Techniques:Block It App – Safari browser extension that blocks social media newsfeeds while keeping notifications visible15-Minute Social Media Blocks – Corey's time-blocking strategy: 15 minutes for OPP (Other People's Posts), 15 minutes for connection requestsContent Creation vs. Posting Separation – Strategy of texting content to someone else to post on your behalfConcepts & Frameworks:Rented Land vs. Owned Land – Understanding which digital properties you control (website, email list) versus platforms you don't (social media)Influencer Marketing vs. Business Marketing – Critical distinction between vanity metrics and conversion metricsQuality Audience Over Large Audience – Business success doesn't require thousands of followers"You Can Be On Social Media Without Being On Social Media" – Chapter from Corey's book on maintaining presence without constant engagementThe New Rich Concept – From Tim Ferriss's The 4-Hour Work Week about $10K/month in perpetuity vs. chasing millionsHiring & Outsourcing Options:Fiverr – Entry-level social media helpUpwork – Platform for hiring freelance social media managersCollege interns – Another cost-effective option mentionedSubscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to the Debate on Social Media06:42 The Duality of Social Media: Good and Bad08:24 Navigating Social Media Without Being Overwhelmed12:02 The Importance of Early Social Media Engagement16:49 Influencer Marketing vs. Business Marketing22:20 Staying Unforgettable in a Digital World31:55 Categorizing Social Media Platforms32:52 Navigating Social Media for Business37:53 The Role of LinkedIn in Professional Networking43:49 Balancing Personal and Business Presence46:39 Prioritizing Social Media in Marketing Strategies48:43 Managing Time on Social Media59:28 Taking Control of Social Media UsageToday’s GuestCorey PerlmanFounder & Digital Marketing Expert, Impact Social MediaCorey Perlman is a social media and digital marketing expert with 15 years of experience helping businesses navigate online presence without losing their focus. As both a keynote speaker and agency owner, he bridges strategy and execution—his team runs social media for about 50 companies while he speaks to audiences about the bigger picture.His book, Authentically Social, challenges one-size-fits-all tactics and pushes for genuine storytelling over billboard-style posting. Corey specializes in helping professionals separate influencer marketing (chasing likes and followers) from business marketing (quality audiences...
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • The Bad Productivity Habits That Drive Away Your Best Employees - With Cara Silletto

    The Bad Productivity Habits That Drive Away Your Best Employees - With Cara Silletto
    Sep 30 2025
    Think your productivity systems are helping your team? They might be driving your best people straight out the door.Brian sits down with retention expert Cara Silletto, who's spent 13 years figuring out why good employees quit, and the answers will make you rethink everything about your management style. Turns out that one-size-fits-all approach you're so proud of? It's treating orchids like cacti, and your team is withering because of it. Cara reveals the generational blind spots that have leaders scratching their heads while talent walks away, plus the uncomfortable truth about why your "common sense" expectations are anything but common.This conversation gets tactical fast: discover the ChatGPT trick that instantly exposes whether you're a delegation disaster, learn why your meeting style might be silencing half your team, and find out how your follow-through failures are quietly destroying trust. Brian and Cara dive deep into the spectrum of leadership styles, from micromanagement hell to delegate-and-abandon disasters, showing you exactly where that sweet spot lives.You'll walk away with the houseplant framework for understanding your team's needs, a system for operationalizing check-ins that actually matter, and the communication preference conversation that stops mind-reading madness before it starts. Plus, they reveal why those productive latchkey Gen Xers are clashing with collaborative millennials and Gen Z workers who need different kinds of support.If you're hemorrhaging talent, confused why good people keep leaving, or ready to stop accidentally sabotaging your own team's success, this episode maps out the leadership moves that keep your best people around.Ready to become the boss people actually want to work for? The show notes are packed with tools and templates to get started.References In This EpisodeCara Silletto – Magnet Culture – Cara's LinkedIn profile and Magnet Culture websiteKey Resources:Magnet Vault – Cara's collection of downloadable tools and templates for managersGet to Know You Sheet – Template for understanding team members' communication and praise preferences (available in Magnet Vault)Staying Power: Why Your Employees Leave and How to Keep Them Longer – Cara's 2018 book on employee retentionBrian's Resources:Team Communication Protocol – Blog post and template for establishing clear communication channels and preferences"This Meeting Could Have Been an Email" – Brian's signature conference session on effective meeting managementTools & Techniques:ChatGPT Delegation Test – Use the prompt "ask me questions one at a time until you have everything you need" to evaluate your delegation clarityCalendar Color-Coding System – Cara's method using purple blocks for non-meeting tasksOne-on-One Agenda Framework – Structure for regular check-ins with team membersConcepts & Frameworks:Employee Retention Ecosystem – Cara's systematic approach to retention strategyHouseplant Spectrum – Management framework from high-maintenance "orchids" to low-maintenance "cacti" employeesLatchkey Generation Theory – Understanding generational differences in independence and problem-solving approachesCommunication Preferences Mapping – Systematic approach to understanding how each team member prefers to receive information and feedbackSubscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to Productivity and Employee Retention01:37 Understanding Generational Gaps in the Workforce03:06 The Impact of Leadership Habits on Employee Retention06:48 Balancing Processes and People in Leadership10:28 Identifying Employee Needs: The Houseplant Analogy13:13 Communication: The Key to Effective Leadership17:20 Unwritten Expectations and Their Impact on Workplace Culture19:34 The Importance of Clear Communication in Delegation23:42 Finding the Balance in Delegation and Empowerment25:28 Empowering Employees to Find Answers28:10 The Spectrum of Leadership Styles30:24 Generational Differences in Critical Thinking32:36 Time Management and Meeting Effectiveness37:24 Reliability and Accountability in Leadership43:07 Making Productivity Skills Contagious46:21 Operationalizing Check-Ins for Better CommunicationToday’s GuestCara SillettoPresident & Chief Retention Officer, Magnet CultureCara Silletto is a workplace retention expert who has spent 13 years helping leaders keep their best people longer by understanding today's multigenerational workforce. Born in 1981 as one of the oldest millennials, she launched her career bridging generational gaps after recognizing that communication breakdowns between managers and employees were driving costly turnover.Her book, Staying Power: Why Your Employees Leave and How to Keep Them Longer (2018), established her as a leading voice in retention strategy before it became a mainstream business priority. Cara specializes in translating generational differences into actionable management practices, helping leaders adapt their communication and ...
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    53 mins
  • The Productivity Skills That Will Fast-Track Your Promotions - with Kendall Berg

    The Productivity Skills That Will Fast-Track Your Promotions - with Kendall Berg
    Aug 28 2025
    Ever wonder why some high performers skyrocket while others stay stuck in middle management hell?Brian teams up with career coach Kendall Berg, who cracked the code after getting promoted five times in six years—and it wasn't by working harder. This conversation gets uncomfortably real about workplace politics, invisible performance reviews, and why your boss probably has zero clue about your actual contributions. Kendall opens up about her journey from being "too direct, too stubborn, too emotional" to mastering the unspoken rules that actually drive promotions, while Brian shares his AI trick that instantly reveals whether you're delegating like a pro or driving your team crazy.You'll walk away with immediately usable tactics: the magic of investing 20% of your time in relationships, how to handle "urgent" requests without becoming a pushover, and the email structure that makes people think you're incredibly thoughtful. Plus, they pull back the curtain on what really happens in those executive rooms where promotion decisions get made—and why knowing your boss's peers might be more important than impressing your boss.If you're exhausted from working endless hours without advancement, confused by office politics, or ready to stop waiting for someone to notice your hard work, this episode reveals the strategic moves that separate the promoted from the passed-over.Ready to level up? Dive into the resources and links waiting in the show notes!References In This EpisodeKendall Berg – “That Career Coach” – Kendall’s website and LinkedIn profileBooks Mentioned:Secrets of the Career Game – Kendall’s book with 36 strategies to help high performers move up in their careers.The Extraordinary Leader: Turning Good Managers into Great Leaders– book by John Zenger and Joseph Folkman, recommended during the episode.Concepts & Frameworks:Nine Box performance evaluation systemCross calibrations/Performance calibrations meetings3-2-1 backup strategy (mentioned in context)CORE delegation framework (Context, Oversight, Resources, Expectation)ARS email template (Acknowledge, Restate, Solve)Subscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to Productivity Skills for Promotions02:59 Kendall's Unique Approach to Career Coaching05:25 The Gap Between High Performers and Stagnation08:28 Understanding Performance Reviews and Visibility10:55 Navigating Urgency and Productivity13:17 Effective Networking and Relationship Building16:16 Planning and Structuring Your Work Week18:56 The Importance of Strategy in Career Advancement30:23 The Importance of Automation and Goal Setting32:37 Effective Communication in Management35:52 Delegation and AI: A New Era of Productivity41:00 Communication Habits for Career Advancement54:36 Navigating the Career Game: Insights from Kendall's BookToday’s GuestKendall BergCareer Coach, Leadership Development Expert, Corporate Strategy ConsultantKendall Berg is a career strategist and executive coach who transforms high-performing professionals into promotion-ready leaders. After struggling with workplace politics early in her career—being "too direct, too stubborn, too emotional"—she developed tactical systems that propelled her through five promotions in six years, culminating in a CFO offer before age 30.Her book, Secrets of the Career Game: 36 Strategies to Get Ahead in Your Career, serves as a no-nonsense tactical guide for navigating corporate realities. Kendall specializes in helping middle managers break through to executive levels by mastering the unspoken rules of workplace advancement, relationship building, and strategic communication.Known for her refreshingly honest approach, Kendall doesn't sugarcoat corporate life or pretend workplaces are meritocracies. Instead, she equips clients with concrete templates, scripts, and frameworks to advocate for themselves effectively while staying authentic. She believes career success isn't about working harder—it's about working strategically and building the right relationships.Currently balancing her coaching practice with a corporate role (because her boss "refuses to let her go"), Kendall brings real-world credibility to her advice. She's the coach for professionals tired of playing games they don't understand.Connect with Kendall:LinkedIn: Kendall BergWebsite: thatcareercoach.netWhy Subscribe To The Email List: Brian shares separate hacks, tips, and actionable learning exclusively for his email subscribers. Sign up so you don’t miss out!About The Creator/Host: I’m Brian. At age 4, I was diagnosed with insulin dependent (type 1) diabetes and told that my life was going to be 10-20 years shorter than everyone else. As a kid I took time for granted, but now as an adult, time is the most precious thing that I have. After spending a career hands-on in the trenches as a leader at all levels, I now train Productivity Gladiators to level up their careers. Graduates wield superpowers in time management, practical ...
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    1 hr
  • Digital Organization Mistakes That Kill Productivity - With Judith Guertin

    Digital Organization Mistakes That Kill Productivity - With Judith Guertin
    Jul 31 2025
    Digital Organization Mistakes That Kill Productivity - With Judith GuertinWhat happens when two organizing experts get real about wrangling life’s digital chaos?In this episode, Brian sits down with digital-organization veteran Judith Guertin, and the conversation quickly gets refreshingly honest. They share their recent experiences—Brian’s panic over scattered note-taking apps and Judith’s frustration with app clutter and forgotten downloads. Expect laughter, self-confessions, and real-world examples that hit home: Brian reveals he’s guilty of never clearing his downloads folder, while Judith confesses she’s hopped between platforms chasing the “next best thing.”They dive into actionable strategies you can start using today—like sticking with one note-taking system, voice-dictating your thoughts, naming files with consistent conventions, and relying on proven backup methods (like the 3–2–1 strategy). You’ll also discover how AI tools like Gemini, Magi.ai, and Microsoft Loop are reshaping the way we organize digital lives—balancing excitement with critical thinking.Whether you're weary of tool fatigue, lost in folders, or curious how AI can support (not sabotage) your productivity, this episode delivers clarity—and a few laughs along the way.Want to go deeper? Check out the show notes and reference links below!References In This EpisodeJudith Guertin - Judith’s professional Linkedin ProfileBeyond the Estate Plan Guide – Judith’s book to organize vital personal and digital information.All Ways Organized – Judith’s professional organizing & digital consulting firm.AppSumo – referenced during discussion on "bright shiny object" syndrome and tool overload.Mem.ai – example of an AI note-taking platform and risks of using emerging tools.Google Gemini in Drive – Brian’s preferred tool for querying notes within Google Docs.Microsoft Loop – discussed as a live, collaborative component across Microsoft apps.Magai.co – Judith’s centralized AI tool for managing multiple chat systems.Communication Protocol Episode – Brian’s prior episode on team communication strategies.Brian’s TEDx Talk – “Reimagining the Actual Value of Your Time.”Addiction To Social Media & Free Hacks To Fix It – tips aligned with our episode’s app overload and habit-reset themes.Calculate The Specific '$/Hr' Value Of Your Time – linked to our discussion on tool cost vs. value of time.How Many Hours Do You Spend On Social Media? – adds context to Brian’s point about time spent.Subscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to Digital Organization02:12 Understanding Your Digital Life05:01 Strategies for Effective Digital Organization08:10 The Role of AI in Digital Organization10:53 Common Mistakes in Digital Organization13:56 Overcoming Bright Shiny Object Syndrome16:28 The Importance of Writing Things Down19:34 Navigating Fear of Missing Out21:30 Choosing the Right Tools for Organization24:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts28:20 The Importance of Integrated Tools28:40 Avoiding App Overload and Subscription Mistakes30:23 Evaluating the Value of Paid Tools32:37 Mastering Content Management34:46 Tackling Digital Clutter35:44 AI's Impact on Productivity43:17 Creating an Effective Digital Organization Plan46:45 Establishing a Naming Convention48:32 Documenting Important Information for the FutureToday’s GuestJudith GuertinProfessional Organizer, Digital Estate Specialist, Productivity ConsultantJudith Guertin is a certified professional organizer, author, and speaker with over 25 years of experience helping individuals, families, and organizations bring order to their digital and physical worlds. Known for her calm, clear approach, Judith specializes in decluttering overwhelmed systems—whether that’s your inbox, cloud drives, or the vital documents your family may one day need.Her book, Beyond the Estate Plan Guide, equips readers to capture and share essential information so nothing gets lost in life transitions. As the founder of All Ways Organized, Judith guides clients in creating sustainable strategies that keep their digital lives accessible, secure, and easy to maintain.Judith blends deep expertise in productivity tools and estate preparedness with a practical, down-to-earth mindset. She believes that organized systems aren’t just about efficiency—they’re about peace of mind and leaving a legacy of clarity.Connect with Judith: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/judithguertin Website: allwaysorganizedmass.com
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    51 mins
  • Should I Quit Social Media? A Debate With A Focus Expert - Penny zenker

    Should I Quit Social Media? A Debate With A Focus Expert - Penny zenker
    Jun 30 2025
    What happens when a productivity expert and a focus coach talk honestly about the role social media plays in our lives?In this episode, Brian sits down with Penny Zenker to have a real conversation about how platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook affect our attention, stress levels, and time. They don’t hold back. Penny admits she’s been thinking about walking away from it altogether. Brian shares his frustration with AI-generated content and the constant noise in his feed.They explore how social media can be both helpful and harmful, and what it means to use it with intention. Penny shares her Reset Mindset framework and talks about how to refocus when life and technology pull you in every direction. They also get into the difference between attention and focus—and why that distinction really matters.You’ll hear laughter, honest disagreement, and some ideas that might just change how you interact with your phone.Want to go deeper? Check out the show notes and resources linked in the episode!References In This EpisodePenny Zenker – pennyskeynote.com(Main website for Penny’s keynotes, workshops, Reset Mindset framework, and booking info)The Reset Mindset Book – Learn MorePenny’s award-winning book that shares practical strategies to help people reset, realign, and refocus in high-stress, high-distraction environments.Penny Zenker’s Linkedin Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pennyzenkerBrian’s TEDx Talk – “The Value of Your Time” – Watch on YouTube Brian talks about time as our most precious resource, and why being intentional matters more than being busy.Taja.ai – taja.aiThe AI tool that sparked this episode’s debate. It repurposes YouTube videos into social media content—helpful for productivity, but also raises questions about authenticity and noise.Duolingo – duolingo.comMentioned as a smarter way to spend a few minutes on your phone compared to endless scrolling. A reminder that learning something new can be a great way to reset your habits.Screen Time Tools –Apple iOS Screen TimeDigital Wellbeing on AndroidCheck how much time you’re spending on social apps—and decide if that aligns with what matters to you.Productivity Gladiator Blog Post - How Many Hours Do You Spend On Social Media?Productivity Gladiator Blog Post - Addiction To Social Media: Fix It With Apps and Tech HacksProductivity Gladiator Blog Post - Addiction to Social Media & Free Hacks To Fix ItSubscribe to Brian’s email list Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Debate on Social Media04:45 The Impact of Social Media on Productivity07:31 AI's Influence on Social Media Perspectives14:17 Personal Use of Social Media: Should You Quit?25:17 Professional Use of Social Media: The Business Perspective29:40 The Power of Focused Efforts31:34 Building Meaningful Connections36:29 Referrals and Customer Relationships41:08 Assessing Social Media's Value45:17 Recognizing Productivity Killers47:22 Taking Action for Change54:48 The Reset Mindset and Future DirectionsToday’s GuestPenny ZenkerKeynote Speaker, Focus Expert, Productivity StrategistPenny Zenker is an international keynote speaker, bestselling author, and the creator of the Reset Mindset—a practical framework that helps people regain control of their time, energy, and attention. Known as The Focusologist, Penny teaches leaders and teams how to eliminate distractions, reduce stress, and stay aligned with what matters most.With a background as a successful tech entrepreneur and strategic business coach, Penny blends big-picture thinking with tactical insight. Her talks and trainings challenge conventional ideas about productivity and help people shift from busy to intentional. Her TEDx talk, featured by Success Magazine, highlights the power of choice in driving performance.Penny has been featured on major media outlets including NBC News, Forbes, and Inc. She works with global brands, fast-moving teams, and purpose-driven individuals who want to create more focus and less friction in their work and life.Connect with Penny:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pennyzenkerWebsite: pennyskeynote.com
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    1 hr
  • How Hidden Beliefs Are Wrecking Your Productivity - With Rachel Druckenmiller

    How Hidden Beliefs Are Wrecking Your Productivity - With Rachel Druckenmiller
    May 28 2025
    In this eye-opening episode, Brian Nelson-Palmer sits down with Rachel Druckenmiller—keynote speaker, singer-songwriter, and founder of Unmuted—to expose a hidden productivity killer: the quiet, limiting beliefs that shape how we work.Drawing on her own experience with burnout and recovery, Rachel shares how phrases like “I’m not the kind of person who…” silently sabotage high performers—and how reframing identity-based self-talk can shift everything.Listeners will walk away with powerful mindset tools, including Rachel’s go-to reframe question—“What kind of person do I want to be?”—and a deeper understanding of how imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and internal narratives impact productivity.Want to go deeper? Check out the show notes and resources linked in the episode!References In This EpisodeRachel Druckenmiller – racheldruckenmiller.com (Main website for speaking, coaching, music, and blog content)Rachel’s Music on Spotify – Spotify Artist Profile (Listen to original songs like Somebody and her upcoming jazz cover of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow”)Brian’s 1st Album with his band FellowcraftThe first song, The West Texas Blues, is his favorite.Brian’s 2nd Album with FellowcraftThe first song, Hold The Line, won the Wammie award for best rock song in 2018. The fifth song, Bartenders & Bourbon, is an epic collaboration if you’re a blues fan! Rachel Druckenmiller on LinkedIn – LinkedIn ProfileRachel’s Social MediaInstagram: @UnmutedLifeFacebook: Unmuted with Rachel DruckenmillerYouTube: Rachel Druckenmiller – Official ChannelBooks and Concepts Referenced:Atomic Habits by James Clear (Referenced for how identity drives habits)Immunity to Change by Lisa Lahey & Robert Kegan(The coaching framework that helped Rachel rewire self-sabotaging beliefs)Dunning-Kruger Effect (Discussed in the episode as it relates to confidence and competence)Subscribe to Brian’s email listChapters00:00 Introduction to Hidden Beliefs and Self-Talk02:33 Understanding Hidden Beliefs and Their Impact04:48 The Power of Identity Statements07:15 Self-Sabotage and Productivity09:36 Fear and Its Role in Productivity11:53 The Importance of Saying No14:26 Recognizing Mindset vs. Skills Issues16:37 Procrastination as a Mindset Indicator18:57 Rewiring Unhelpful Beliefs21:44 Conclusion and Personal Reflections22:36 The Power of Questions Over Statements24:01 Rediscovering Childhood Wonder and Capability24:48 The Dunning-Kruger Effect and Self-Perception26:15 Embracing New Identities Through Action28:32 The Journey to Becoming a Singer-Songwriter33:10 Claiming Your Identity and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs37:59 Transforming Self-Talk and Identity Questions42:45 Future Aspirations: Music and AuthorshipToday’s GuestRachel DruckenmillerKeynote Speaker, TEDx Speaker, Leadership Trainer, Singer-SongwriterFounder of UnmutedRachel Druckenmiller is a keynote speaker, TEDx presenter, and the founder of Unmuted, a leadership and learning consultancy that helps people tap into greater clarity, confidence, and courage. With nearly two decades of experience, Rachel works with organizations, associations, and teams to amplify purpose, strengths, and impact—starting from the inside out.She’s been recognized by Forbes as a Next1000 honoree, named a “40 Under 40 Game Changer” by Workforce Magazine, and selected by Smart Meetings as a “Best of the Stage” speaker. Whether she’s leading a training or delivering a keynote, Rachel brings a refreshing blend of vulnerability, energy, and practical insight that helps people rethink burnout, rebuild self-belief, and re-engage with work in meaningful ways.Outside of speaking, Rachel is a singer-songwriter with original music streaming on all major platforms and a debut book launching in Fall 2026. She's also a fan of fresh air, unfiltered conversations, and singing Disney songs with full confidence—even in the cereal aisle.Connect with her at: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/racheldruckenmiller Website: racheldruckenmiller.com
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    47 mins
  • Conversations That Matter: The Hidden Productivity Killer You're Ignoring - With Jess Pettitt

    Conversations That Matter: The Hidden Productivity Killer You're Ignoring - With Jess Pettitt
    Apr 28 2025
    In this lively episode, Brian Nelson-Palmer sits down with Jess Pettitt—speaker, author, and founder of Good Enough Now—to uncover the hidden productivity killer most teams overlook: the conversations they’re avoiding.Drawing on years of experience with organizations nationwide, Jess explains how curiosity, vulnerability, and a willingness to get uncomfortable can unlock real productivity and stronger teams.Listeners will walk away with practical tools—like Jess’s three-part conversation framework—and fresh perspective on handling feedback, workplace disagreements, and team communication.Want to go deeper? Check out the show notes and resources linked in the episode!——Links & References In This EpisodeGood Enough Now – goodenoughnow.com (Jess’s main website and resource hub)JessPettitt.com (Personal/professional speaking and author site)Jess Pettitt’s LinkedIn Profile – LinkedIn ProfileJess’s Social MediaTwitter/X: @JessPettittInstagram: @goodenoughnowFacebook: Good Enough NowBooks and Concepts Referenced:Almost Doing Good by Jess Pettitt (on how organizations can prepare for disruption and uncertainty)Good Enough Now by Jess Pettitt (practical guide to authenticity and real conversations)Jess’s Three-Part Framework (Prepare, Recognize, Respond) – overview and speaking resources——Chapters00:00 Introduction to Conversations That Matter02:08 The Importance of Humor in Difficult Conversations04:42 Perfectionism and Productivity07:09 Curiosity Over Judgment09:24 The Role of Questions in Communication11:49 Navigating Differences in Opinions16:00 Real-Life Impact of Difficult Conversations23:07 Framework for Taking Responsibility in Conversations26:47 Understanding Patterns in Human Behavior29:18 Navigating Difficult Conversations32:17 The Complexity of Language and Identity34:15 The Art of Giving Feedback41:14 Embracing Imperfection in Communication42:25 The Current Landscape of DEI Work——Today’s Guest: Jess PettittJess Pettitt is a sought-after speaker, author, and the founder of Good Enough Now, a consultancy dedicated to helping teams and organizations spark authentic conversations that drive real results. With a unique blend of humor and insight, Jess draws from years of experience as a standup comic and diversity educator, making even the toughest topics accessible and actionable for audiences nationwide.Over the past two decades, Jess has delivered keynotes, workshops, and leadership training for organizations in higher education, business, government, and non-profit sectors. Known for her “safe different” approach, she equips teams with the tools to move past perfectionism, embrace curiosity, and have the conversations that truly matter—boosting both productivity and workplace connection.Beyond her professional work, Jess is a proud dog mom, cheese enthusiast, and a self-described nerd who loves everything from codebreaking biographies to local Nerd Nite meetups. Whether she’s on stage or sharing stories over queso, Jess is passionate about helping people do the best they can with what they’ve got—some of the time.Connect with her at:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jesspettittWebsite: goodenoughnow.com
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    48 mins
  • Your Communication Protocol Can Make or Break Your Team’s Productivity - With Theresa M. Ward

    Your Communication Protocol Can Make or Break Your Team’s Productivity - With Theresa M. Ward
    Mar 17 2025
    In this engaging episode, Brian Nelson-Palmer interviews Theresa Ward, founder of Fiery Feather, who reveals how communication protocols can transform team productivity and effectiveness.As a team effectiveness coach with experience across multiple industries, Theresa shares how structured systems combined with emotional intelligence create thriving workplaces.The conversation explores practical steps for crafting a situational communication guide, addressing common workplace frustrations like unclear expectations, delayed responses, and unnecessary meetings—making this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to streamline communication and boost team efficiency.For more information, or a template to copy, visit the blog post on this topic!References In This EpisodeFiery Feather Website – fieryfeather.com (Theresa Ward’s consultancy on team effectiveness)Theresa Ward’s LinkedIn Profile – LinkedIn ProfileCalendly (For scheduling without back-and-forth emails)Books and Concepts Referenced:The One-Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson (on leadership and productivity)The Waterline Concept, from the book 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership by Jim Dethmer (on decision-making in organizations)Patrick Lencioni’s Work (on leadership and team communication)Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross And The Five Stages of Grief®David Allen's work (Getting Things Done methodology)Related Podcast Episode:Breaking Your Team’s Success Barrier with Maura ThomasFull Episode Digest - Read it on the episode’s page at www.ProductivityGladiator.com/the-showChapters03:45 Understanding Communication Protocols07:45 The Importance of Communication Protocols11:45 Asynchronous vs Synchronous Communication15:51 Establishing Personal Communication Protocols19:27 Emergency Communication Protocols25:38 Empowering Communication in Crisis26:25 Understanding the Waterline Concept28:41 Communication Protocols with External Partners29:28 Organizing Communication Protocols30:14 Managing Non-Compliance with Protocols32:57 The Importance of Praise and Criticism36:32 Personal Communication Pet Peeves40:51 The Purpose Behind Communication ProtocolsToday’s GuestTheresa m. WarDTeam Effectiveness Coach & Founder of Fiery FeatherTheresa M. Ward is the founder of Fiery Feather, a consultancy focused on helping teams improve communication, collaboration, and overall effectiveness. With a background spanning multiple industries—including fintech, media, healthcare, and government—Theresa brings a unique, cross-industry perspective to solving workplace challenges.Her expertise lies in combining structured systems (like standard operating procedures and project management frameworks) with interpersonal skills (like emotional intelligence and team dynamics). She has worked with organizations to develop onboarding processes, communication protocols, and operational strategies that enhance both efficiency and team cohesion.A passionate advocate for experiential learning and adult education, Theresa draws from psychology, leadership training, and real-world experience to help teams thrive. She has been a trusted consultant for businesses looking to improve productivity through clearer communication, better collaboration, and smarter systems.Connect with her at:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresa-m-ward/Website: fieryfeather.comWhy Subscribe To The Email List: Brian shares separate hacks, tips, and actionable learning exclusively for his email subscribers. Sign up so you don’t miss out!About The Creator/Host: I’m Brian. At age 4, I was diagnosed with insulin dependent (type 1) diabetes and told that my life was going to be 10-20 years shorter than everyone else. As a kid I took time for granted, but now as an adult, time is the most precious thing that I have. After spending a career hands-on in the trenches as a leader at all levels, I now train Productivity Gladiators to level up their careers. Graduates wield superpowers in time management, practical leadership, communication, & productivity. If what you’ve seen here intrigues you, reach out, let’s chat!“Time is the currency of your life, spend it wisely.”
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    45 mins