The Productivity Show

Learn why systems… not motivation… drive consistent progress. We explore shifting from goal-chasing to system-building through small structural changes. Discover how a "never skip twice" rule and systematic relationship management can lead to long-term results without relying on willpower. Stop waiting for inspiration and start building the engine that powers your productivity every single day. Ge...

Are you tired of the "goal-chasing" treadmill? In this episode, we dive deep into systems thinking—the secret behind consistent progress and long-term results. We explore why goals often lead to "pre-success failure" and how shifting your focus to daily systems, feedback loops, and structural changes can transform your productivity. Learn how to decompose complex tasks, build pipelines for scale,...

Juggling multiple roles? This Wisdom Wednesday, I'm sharing practical weekly planning strategies to help you stay on top of everything without feeling overwhelmed. Discover how to free up mental space, make time for deep thinking, and build flexibility into your week so you can thrive in all your responsibilities. Learn how to plan smarter, not harder, and reclaim your weekends. Get 20% off your f...

Have you ever wondered why we're so motivated on January 1st but lose steam by February? In this episode, we dive into the "Fresh Start Effect" from Katy Milkman's book  How to Change . We explore how psychological clean slates—like Mondays, birthdays, or even a new notebook—can reset your identity and boost motivation. However, fresh starts have a hidden downside: they can actually derail high pe...

Before you set new goals for the year, do something more powerful. Let go. In this Wisdom Wednesday episode, I'll explain why holding on to what's not working slows you down, how letting go creates momentum, and one simple way to start the new year lighter, clearer, and more focused. Try Gusto today at  gusto.com/TPS , and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll.

Are you objectively productive but subjectively unfulfilled? You might be focusing on the "clock" (tasks and efficiency) instead of the "compass" (values and direction). In this episode, we explore Scott Young's research on the most underrated productivity technique: the values-based weekly review. We'll show you how to use the "5 Whys" to connect tasks to deeper motivations, apply Stephen Covey's...

Want the holidays to feel longer and more meaningful? The secret isn't doing more. It's being more present. In this Wisdom Wednesday episode, I'll show you why divided attention makes time feel shorter, how presence slows life down, and one simple way to enjoy your holidays more without adding anything to your schedule. This episode is brought to you by  25X Productivity Coaching – double your per...

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 and simple declutter h...

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 never intentionally shaped in the first place. In this encore episode, you'll learn a sim...

Have 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 or market...

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 with Notion Agent at  notion.com/tps .

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 you automate your way...

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 enjoy—can reset your brain in way...

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 the attention they deserve. If you're looking for your next meani...

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 insurance is never cheaper than it is today. Get the right life insurance for...

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 what matters most...

How is it possible that a small fraction of your tasks is responsible for almost all of your progress? Most people drown in endless to-dos, believing productivity comes from doing more. But the truth is far more straightforward, and far more liberating. In this encore episode, we unpack the 20% of actions that quietly drive 80% of your results, and why identifying them can instantly change how you...

Have you noticed how the final quarter of the year has a way of sneaking up on you? Either motivating you to sprint or reminding you of everything you didn't get done? Q4 is a powerful reset point, and with the right approach, it can become the most satisfying, high-momentum stretch of your entire year. That's why we're sharing a simple but surprisingly effective 3-step framework to help you revie...

When life keeps changing, should your productivity system stay the same? In this encore episode, we share how rigid routines can start to hold you back once your priorities evolve — whether that's starting a new job, building a relationship, or entering a completely new season of life. Discover how to plan with flexibility, stay anchored to your long-term vision, and truly enjoy the passage of tim...

How much valuable knowledge slips through the cracks of your busy day? What are the ideas you jot down, forget, and never act on? Tiago Forte believes the key to unlocking your full potential isn't doing  more , it's organizing what you already know. As the creator of the "Building a Second Brain" method, Tiago has helped thousands of people transform digital chaos into clarity. In this encore epi...

Feeling overwhelmed? Discover how 'reset days' can transform your productivity. Learn Thanh's practical strategies, including brain dumps for clarity, guided meditation for mental calm, and setting hard stops to prevent burnout. Reclaim control and get back on track with these actionable tips. Try Gusto today at  gusto.com/TPS , and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll.

Discover the essential apps and tools that truly boost productivity without adding digital clutter. In this episode, we share our must-have software and hardware, from text expanders and note-taking systems like Notion and Apple Notes, to the latest AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, and even quality equipment. Learn how to choose wisely, integrate effectively, and simplify your workflow to get mor...

Ready to level up your productivity? This Wisdom Wednesday, we're diving deep into advanced strategies for the TEA Framework—Time, Energy, and Attention. Discover how to use theme-based focus, align tasks with your natural energy, and leverage constraints to eliminate busywork. Learn how continuous review can transform your productivity, helping you get more done without sacrificing what matters....

Ever notice how sitting a little taller instantly makes you feel more alert and confident? There's real science behind that. Your posture isn't just about how you look — it directly affects your energy, focus, and productivity. When your body is misaligned, it's not just your back that suffers; your brain does too. In this encore episode, Thanh sits down with Rick Mathes, clinic director of  Align...

Ever feel like you're spinning your wheels–working hard but somehow not moving forward? That's the telltale sign of a productivity rut. It happens to everyone, even the most organized among us. When your motivation dips, your to-do list turns into a wall of red, and every task feels heavier than it should, it's time for a reset. In this encore episode, you'll learn the fastest way to pull yourself...