Episodes

9h ago

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 habits to keep your digital life streamlined and stress-free. Get 20% off your first order: dripdrop.com and use promo code tps. Visit www.asianefficiency.com for more productivity tips and tactics. Cheat Sheet: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. World Cup plans… and a sneak peek at how big events can hijack your focus [01:02] . Top 3 Productivity Resources [03:44] . Local vs cloud isn’t either/or—here’s the hybrid approach that keeps things fast and safe [06:03] . Files aren’t “files” anymore… so what are you actually organizing now? [07:33] . The naming move that makes “future you” grateful (and searching effortless) [15:37] . Confession time: why even the organized people stop naming photos—and what they do instead [16:47] . Clicking folders is dead—this is how to jump to anything in seconds [23:49] . The “3 keywords” trick that quietly turns chaos into instant retrieval [25:04] . Version clutter is real—how to keep drafts without drowning in V12_final_FINAL [25:51] . Your most irreplaceable digital assets might not be what you think… and why backups matter more than ever [30:27] . The 3-2-1 rule explained with a real-world disaster scenario you’ll actually remember [31:18] . PDFs, transcripts, and the “digital filing cabinet” strategy that keeps everything accessible [33:25] . Meeting transcripts + AI = a productivity unlock most people haven’t noticed yet [34:21] . The “Weekly Synthesizer” workflow that finds patterns you’d miss—even if you took perfect notes [41:08] . One small action this week that starts compounding immediately [46:15] . Links: DripDrop 25X Productivity Coaching New Order: A Decluttering Handbook for Creative Folks (and Everyone Else) by Fay Wolf Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World by Cal Newport Productivity Academy The Productivity Show on Youtube The Productivity Show Youtube Clips Become a member of TPS+ Take the Productivity Quiz If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

5d ago

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 simple, realistic weekly planning process that focuses less on perfect schedules and more on making better decisions with your time and energy. You’ll discover how to choose the right moment to plan, identify your true priorities, and build a week that sets you up for small, consistent wins — even when life inevitably disrupts your plans. Life insurance is never cheaper than it is today. Get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, and save more than fifty percent at selectquote.com/tps . Links: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. SelectQuote 25X Productivity Coaching If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Dec 15

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 marketing yourself can transform your productivity. Learn how to apply an Asian Efficiency lens to this framework, ensuring you’re not just performing, but strategically building your platform and impact. Discover actionable insights to prioritize, delegate, and optimize both types of work for maximum results. Visit Indeed.com/tps to start hiring now. Life insurance is never cheaper than it is today. Get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, and save more than fifty percent at selectquote.com/tps . Get 20% off your first order: dripdrop.com and use promo code tps. Visit asianefficiency.com for more productivity tips and tactics. Cheat Sheet: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Top 3 Productivity Resources [02:27] . Why what people see is only a fraction of the work—and how that misunderstanding hurts productivity [05:19] . Real-world examples that reveal the hidden effort behind great performance (including a surprising political analogy) [08:31] . How AI can quietly handle the invisible work so humans can shine where it matters most [16:20] . The subtle imbalance that creates “fake work” and keeps people busy but unnoticed [22:12] . A provocative question: how much prep is actually required for great execution? [27:38] . Links: Indeed SelectQuote DripDrop Free to Focus: A Total Productivity System to Achieve More by Doing Less TPS109: Finding Your Focus w/ Michael Hyatt Black Box Thinking: Growth Mindset and the Secrets of High Performance JustWatch 25X Productivity Coaching Productivity Academy The Productivity Show on Youtube The Productivity Show Youtube Clips Become a member of TPS+ Take the Productivity Quiz If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Dec 10

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 . Links: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Notion Agent 25X Productivity Coaching How to Take Smart Notes: One Simple Technique to Boost Writing, Learning and Thinking If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Dec 8

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 to a more efficient and fulfilling day. Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/tps . Get Notion, now with Notion Agent at notion.com/tps . Try Gusto today at gusto.com/TPS , and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll. Visit asianefficiency.com for more productivity tips and tactics. Cheat Sheet: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Top 3 Productivity Resources [02:38] A simple mindset shift that makes automation feel effortless [06:15] Real-life automations we use that save time and energy every single day [15:41] How small tweaks can turn routine into something that runs itself [32:09] The surprisingly simple habit that keeps everything on track [40:24] Links: Shopify Notion Agent Gusto Lindy EooCoo Office Desk Timer Cube Visual Pomodoro Timer The Phoenix Project: A Novel About IT, DevOps, and Helping Your Business Win meross Outdoor Smart Plug 5 Examples of Tasks You Can Automate To Save Yourself An Hour a Day (TPS262) Comet AI Browser Elgato Stream Deck MK.2 Keyboard Maestro Alfred Raycast for Windows Velja BrowserTamer 25X Productivity Coaching Productivity Academy The Productivity Show on Youtube The Productivity Show Youtube Clips Become a member of TPS+ Take the Productivity Quiz If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Dec 3

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 ways traditional productivity hacks can’t touch. In this encore episode, we’ll show you why adding a little creativity to your routine might be the most productive decision you make all year. Get 20% off your first order: dripdrop.com and use promo code tps. Links: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. DripDrop 25X Productivity Coaching If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Dec 1

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 meaningful read (and not just the next trendy one) this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Masterclass.com/TPS for up to as much as 50% off. Try Gusto today at gusto.com/TPS , and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll. Get 20% off your first order: dripdrop.com and use promo code tps. Visit asianefficiency.com for more productivity tips and tactics. Cheat Sheet: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. An unexpected air-fryer trick you’ll wish you knew sooner [00:29] Top 3 Productivity Resources [01:30] What really makes a book “underrated”? [04:40] The journaling book that unlocks 3,001 questions about yourself [07:32] The framework that helps you finally finish what you start [18:56] How AI can quietly supercharge your productivity systems [24:36] A smarter way to get past resistance and overwhelm [25:38] Why “The Road Less Stupid” might save you from costly mistakes [26:40] How a simple pre-mortem can prevent future regrets [28:19] The visual-thinking skill most presentations are missing [34:59] The human-evolution insight that explains modern behavior [40:49] Four habits that set exceptional leaders apart [46:58] Links: Masterclass Gusto DripDrop 25X Productivity Coaching Atomic Habits — James Clear The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People — Stephen R. Covey The Power of Full Engagement — Jim Loehr & Tony Schwartz How to Have a Good Day — Caroline Webb How to Stop Worrying and Start Living — Dale Carnegie 30 Lessons for Living: Tried and True Advice from the Wisest Americans — Karl Pillemer 3001 Questions All About Me Start Finishing: How to Go from Idea to Done — Charlie Gilkey The Road Less Stupid: Advice from the Chairman of the Board — Keith J. Cunningham Slide:ology: The Art and Science of Creating Great Presentations — Nancy Duarte Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind — Yuval Noah Harari The Four Obsessions of an Extraordinary Executive — Patrick Lencioni Productivity Academy The Productivity Show on Youtube The Productivity Show Youtube Clips Become a member of TPS+ Take the Productivity Quiz If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Nov 26

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 YOU, for LESS, and save more than fifty percent at selectquote.com/tps . Links: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. SelectQuote 25X Productivity Coaching If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Nov 24

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. Tune in for insights that will transform your leadership. Life insurance is never cheaper than it is today. Get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, and save more than fifty percent at selectquote.com/tps . Try Gusto today at gusto.com/TPS , and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll. Get 20% off your first order: dripdrop.com and use promo code tps. Visit asianefficiency.com for more productivity tips and tactics. Cheat Sheet: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Top 3 Productivity Resources [02:53] How to stop living in your inbox and start using email like a high-leverage manager instead of a help desk. [07:42] A simple meeting shift that frees up focus time and makes your team like meetings more (yes, really). [22:29] How AI note-takers let you “be” in two meetings at once — without burning out or missing crucial details. [24:39] The underrated behaviors that quietly turn a group of individuals into a high-performing team. [33:19] A low-friction way to build real accountability on your team without turning into a micromanager. [39:53] The personal habits great managers use behind the scenes to stay sharp, organized, and credible. [44:06] Links: SelectQuote Gusto DripDrop 25X Productivity Coaching The Coaching Habit: Say Less, Ask More, and Change the Way You Lead Forever by Michael Bungay Stanier Sunsama Wisdom Takes Work: Learn. Apply. Repeat. by Ryan Holiday Otter.ai Lindy The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable Productivity Academy The Productivity Show on Youtube The Productivity Show Youtube Clips Become a member of TPS+ Take the Productivity Quiz If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Nov 19

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 work. Get Notion, now with Notion Agent at notion.com/tps . Links: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Notion Agent 25X Productivity Coaching If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Nov 17

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 review what’s happened, uncover new opportunities, and set yourself up for a strong, confident finish. Whether your year’s been smooth, messy, or somewhere in between, this encore episode gives you a practical roadmap for turning the final weeks into meaningful progress. You’ll learn how to cut through overwhelm, identify what truly matters, and execute with clarity, so you enter the holidays feeling accomplished instead of stressed or disappointed. If you’re ready to close out the year on your terms, this is your blueprint. Visit Indeed.com/tps to start hiring now. Masterclass.com/TPS for an additional 15% off any annual membership. Get Notion, now with Notion Agent at notion.com/tps . Visit asianefficiency.com for more productivity tips and tactics. Cheat Sheet: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Top 3 Productivity Resources [02:25] The simple reflection process that reveals what really happened last quarter [03:48] How to spot hidden opportunities you may have overlooked all year [18:28] Why the “best” workout time might not be what you expect [28:23] A small reading habit shift that removes all friction [31:46] Tweaks that turn everyday routines into smoother systems [35:06] The behind-the-scenes change that made our content process way easier [38:47] The execution mindset that makes big goals actually achievable [43:56] Quick tips and go-to resources to power up your productivity [53:26] Links: Indeed Masterclass Notion Agent 25X Productivity Coaching Leatherman Style PS Keychain Multitool Ultralearning: Master Hard Skills, Outsmart the Competition, and Accelerate Your Career The Summer Juggle — Can You Be Productive When The Kids Are On Summer Break? (TPS251) Here’s A Quick Way To Stay On Track With Your Goals All Year (TPS254) 30 Lessons for Living: Tried and True Advice from the Wisest Americans Scaling Up: How a Few Companies Make It…and Why the Rest Don’t (Rockefeller Habits 2.0) Fall; or, Dodge in Hell: A Novel Become Productive Again: 6 Ways To Get Back On Track (TPS255) 12 Week Year Fatigue, Procrastination and Being Unproductive…These Are Some of the Penalties of Ignoring This One Thing (TPS237) Productivity Academy The Productivity Show on Youtube The Productivity Show Youtube Clips Become a member of TPS+ Take the Productivity Quiz If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Nov 12

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 time — even when everything around you is shifting. If you’ve ever felt that your old productivity methods no longer fit your new reality, this episode will help you recalibrate, refocus, and find flow again. Get Notion, now with Notion Agent at notion.com/tps . Links: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Notion 25X Productivity Coaching If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Nov 10

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 episode, Tiago joins Thanh to share how you can capture, organize, and leverage information so your mind stays focused on creativity and decision-making. From his philosophy on weekly reviews to his favorite tools and mindset shifts, this conversation is packed with practical ways to stop juggling ideas and start executing with calm, confident focus. Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/tps . Visit Indeed.com/tps to start hiring now. Get 20% off your first order: dripdrop.com and use promo code tps. Visit www.asianefficiency.com for more productivity tips and tactics. Cheat Sheet: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Top 3 Productivity Resources [01:33] . What it really means to build a second brain and why it matters [04:29] . How Forte Labs began—and the moment Tiago realized productivity could be taught differently [04:55] . Why managing knowledge may be the most underrated productivity skill of all [06:39] . The simple four-part PARA system that can organize your entire digital life [13:15] . How sharing what you know multiplies your learning and impact [18:15] . Real stories of how knowledge management changes the way people work [19:19] . One small, practical action you can take today to start your second brain [26:38] . How to sort your ideas, notes, and projects without overthinking it [27:45] . The best place to begin if you’re new to personal knowledge management [34:46] . How Tiago’s system connects—and differs—from David Allen’s GTD [36:52] . A peek into Tiago’s own daily and weekly productivity habits [40:18] . Why the weekly review might be the single habit that holds it all together [40:51] . Where to explore more about Building a Second Brain and join the movement [49:10] . Links: Shopify Indeed DripDrop 25X Productivity Coaching Hours Tracker Breaking Smart Newsletter GorillaPod The PARA Method: A Universal System for Organizing Digital Information The One-Touch Guide to Doing a Weekly Review: How I Go From Chaos to Clarity in 30 Minutes Productivity Academy The Productivity Show on Youtube The Productivity Show Youtube Clips Become a member of TPS+ Take the Productivity Quiz If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Nov 5

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. Links: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Gusto 25X Productivity Coaching If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Nov 3

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 more done. Masterclass.com/TPS for an additional 15% off any annual membership. Try Gusto today at gusto.com/TPS , and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll. Visit www.asianefficiency.com for more productivity tips and tactics. You can find links to everything that we share in the show notes at theproductivityshow.com/ . Cheat Sheet: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Top 3 Productivity Resources [02:19] The simple rule we use to pick tools (and skip the shiny ones) [05:50] Thanh has switched his task management app after a decade+ — why it finally stuck [11:57] Beyond email & calendars: the integration that changes everything [12:50] “Do I need to code?” The real bar to building AI agents [17:02] A quick test to make an app stick —before you invest time [19:09] One tweak that kills repetitive typing and speeds up workflows [24:42] Voice-first shortcut magic that beats plain text expansion [27:03] Notes that grow with you—where we landed for PKM (for now) [30:05] We don’t use just one AI—here’s when each shines [36:22] Physical desk upgrades that save clicks—and sanity [40:59] Links: Masterclass Gusto 25X Productivity Coaching Logitech MX Master 4 Ergonomic Wireless Mouse Magnetic Airpod Pro Strap The Bullet Journal Method: Track the Past, Order the Present, Design the Future Todoist Notion Alfred Autohotkey Boost Your Productivity Using Just Your Voice (TPS569) Wispr Flow Obsidian Lindy ChatGPT Claude Descript MacWhisper CalDigit TS4 – Thunderbolt Dock UGREEN Headphone Extension Cable 3.5mm Productivity Academy The Productivity Show on Youtube The Productivity Show Youtube Clips Become a member of TPS+ Take the Productivity Quiz If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Oct 29

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. Life insurance is never cheaper than it is today. Get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, and save more than fifty percent at selectquote.com/tps . Visit www.asianefficiency.com for more productivity tips and tactics. Links: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. SelectQuote 25X Productivity Coaching If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Oct 27

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 Pain Solutions , to reveal how fixing your body’s position can transform how you work and feel. You’ll learn why posture is the foundation of true productivity, how small daily adjustments can eliminate pain, and why the key to getting more done might start with how you sit. Life insurance is never cheaper than it is today. Get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, and save more than fifty percent at selectquote.com/tps . Masterclass.com/TPS for an additional 15% off any annual membership. Get Notion, now with Notion Agent at notion.com/tps . You can find links to everything that we share in the show notes at theproductivityshow.com/ . Cheat Sheet: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Top 3 Productivity Resources [01:49] A near-fatal car crash that changed everything—and led to a new mission. [02:58] Why your body might be the hidden driver behind your productivity. [08:30] The surprising truth about pain—and what it’s really trying to tell you. [13:52] How your body secretly compensates for imbalance (and why that matters). [23:19] The modern epidemic that’s wrecking posture and causing chronic pain. [24:16] The key to unlocking effortless movement and lasting energy. [26:24] Inside Rick’s daily routine—where productivity meets purpose. [31:52] The morning practice that resets focus and gratitude in minutes. [37:36] Why “cleaning the garage” isn’t a task—and what GTD got right about that. [39:01] How to bounce back from burnout and build breathing room into your week. [43:00] Links: SelectQuote Masterclass Notion Agent 25X Productivity Coaching Align Pain Solutions Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity Omnifocus Pain Free: A Revolutionary Method for Stopping Chronic Pain The Power of Full Engagement: Managing Energy, Not Time, Is the Key to High Performance and Personal Renewal Align Pain Solutions Youtube Channel Headspace Calm Airmail Fantastical Productive Workouts and Recover Like a World-Class Athlete w/ Garrett Salpeter (TPS223) Egoscue Productivity Academy The Productivity Show on Youtube The Productivity Show Youtube Clips Become a member of TPS+ Take the Productivity Quiz If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Oct 22

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 out of that slump. Discover two simple yet powerful actions that can reignite your energy, rebuild momentum, and help you fall back in love with getting things done. Ready to tackle bigger problems? Go to Claude.ai/tps and get 50% off your first 3 months of Claude Pro. Links: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Claude Code 25X Productivity Coaching If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Oct 20

This episode of The Productivity Show dives deep into advanced strategies for mastering the TEA (Time, Energy, Attention) Framework. We’ll go beyond basic productivity tips, exploring how to leverage time tracking for deep insights, implement the 30/30 rule to eliminate fake work, conduct energy audits to banish “vampires,” and use progressive focus techniques like Pomodoro and the Rule of Three to cultivate deep attention. Discover how to build systems and cultivate discipline for lasting change and significant productivity gains. Ready to tackle bigger problems? Go to Claude.ai/tps and get 50% off your first 3 months of Claude Pro. Visit Indeed.com/tps to start hiring now. You can find links to everything that we share in the show notes at theproductivityshow.com/ . Cheat Sheet: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Top 3 Productivity Resources [02:03] . The unexpected moment that sparked the TEA Framework — and why it stuck [04:41] . Going beyond time hacks: how pros really reclaim their hours [07:56] . Why tracking your time isn’t enough — and what to do with the data once you have it [10:54] . The one question that can instantly reveal what’s wasting your time [20:33] . The hidden factor that quietly destroys your productivity (and how to fix it) [23:34] . How to spot and eliminate “energy vampires” from your day [25:51] . Simple shifts that supercharge your focus and attention span [29:09] . Why doing less might be the key to achieving more — the Rule of 3 [32:44] . Links: Claude Code Indeed TextExpander 1Password Rise TEA: The 3 Pillars of Productivity You Need To Unlock Your Full Potential Toggl Track Timing Clockify Daylio 25X Productivity Coaching Productivity Academy The Productivity Show on Youtube The Productivity Show Youtube Clips Become a member of TPS+ Take the Productivity Quiz If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Oct 15

Who helps you stay on track when things stop going according to plan? Even the most disciplined, self-reliant people hit moments when motivation fades or decisions feel heavier than usual. That’s where your support system steps in — the friends, mentors, and peers who offer perspective, accountability, and the occasional tough love that keeps you moving forward. In this encore episode, we share how building your circle before you need it is one of the smartest productivity moves you can make. Discover how surrounding yourself with the right people can turn setbacks into turning points — and goals into lasting results. Try Gusto today at gusto.com/TPS , and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll. Links: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Gusto 25X Productivity Coaching If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Oct 13

Feeling swamped and stuck? In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of “Reset Days”, a powerful strategy to conquer overwhelm and get back on track. Discover practical techniques, from mental and emotional resets to tactical workload management, that will help you regain control, boost your productivity, and find your flow again. Learn how to implement these strategies to transform your most chaotic days into opportunities for renewed focus and energy. Sign up for a $1/month trial period at shopify.com/tps . Try Gusto today at gusto.com/TPS , and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll. You can find links to everything that we share in the show notes at theproductivityshow.com/ . Cheat Sheet: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Top 3 Productivity Resources. [02:28] A “constant sprint” moment—and the simple move that flipped the switch. [06:20] Why overwhelm spikes when control slips (and how to get it back fast). [10:16] A zero-friction daily reset you can do anywhere—no incense required. [12:15] The “6-Week Rule”: a tiny question that shrinks big problems. [14:57] The ruthless edit your task list is begging for. [23:24] An AI inbox assistant that replies like you—and knows your goals. [27:44] Calendar triage: one weekly prompt that creates breathing room. [31:35] Overwhelm prevention: themes, buffers, and a 30-minute habit that compounds. [36:57] Links: Shopify Gusto Stillness is the Key Ikea artificial plants How to Think Like a Roman Emperor: The Stoic Philosophy of Marcus Aurelius Calm How to Stop Worrying and Start Living Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman Calendar Cleanup: Win Back Time & Trust Your Calendar Again (TPS381) 25X Productivity Coaching Productivity Academy The Productivity Show on Youtube The Productivity Show Youtube Clips Become a member of TPS+ Take the Productivity Quiz If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Oct 8

Have you ever hit a point where even your morning coffee–or in this case, matcha latte–can’t spark motivation? When every small task feels heavy, and you start detaching from the work, people, and routines you once loved? That creeping sense of exhaustion isn’t laziness–it’s burnout knocking at your door. In this encore episode, we discuss hitting burnout and the surprisingly simple steps that can help with recovery. You’ll learn how to recognize the early warning signs, set healthy boundaries, and rebuild your energy with small, practical actions that actually stick. If you’ve been feeling drained or directionless, this short episode might be the wake-up call you’ve been needing. Ready to tackle bigger problems? Go to Claude.ai/tps and get 50% off your first 3 months of Claude Pro. Links: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Claude 25X Productivity Coaching If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Oct 6

Ever wonder why some of your best ideas come when your mind refuses to sit still? Productivity coach and author Alan P. Brown argues that ADHD isn’t just a challenge; it can be a hidden advantage when you learn how to harness it. From understanding how your brain truly works to mastering evidence-based “brain scaffolding” and simple focus hacks, Alan shares how he turned distraction into one of his greatest assets. In this encore episode, you’ll learn how to quiet mental noise, use your natural bursts of focus, and build systems that work with your brain, not against it. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with ADHD or just feel constantly pulled in every direction, this episode will help you reclaim control, find flow, and unlock your true productivity potential. Masterclass.com/TPS for an additional 15% off any annual membership. Visit Indeed.com/tps to start hiring now. Ready to tackle bigger problems? Go to Claude.ai/tps and get 50% off your first 3 months of Claude Pro. You can find links to everything that we share in the show notes at theproductivityshow.com/ . Cheat Sheet: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Top 3 Productivity Resources [01:02] The simple litmus test to tell “busy” from true ADHD—and why it matters. [04:35] A late diagnosis that flipped a career trajectory—how Alan made the turn. [06:13] Subtle executive-function signals most people miss until it’s costly. [07:33] The trio that trips up high achievers more than they admit. [16:56] A no-app brain hack that fences off focus (plus when to set the timer). [19:56] Why some systems overwhelm—and the leaner alternative that sticks. [36:34] The upside of ADHD: the edge that appears once you balance the scales. [38:30] Links: Masterclass Indeed Claude 25X Productivity Coaching Succeed: How We Can Reach Our Goals Take the Online Adult ADHD Test from ADDA monaplanner The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success: A Pocketbook Guide to Fulfilling Your Dreams Zen and the Art of Productivity: 27 Easy Ways to Have More Time, Earn More Money and Live Happier ADDCrusher.com ADD Crusher youtube CrusherTV Productivity Academy The Productivity Show on Youtube The Productivity Show Youtube Clips Become a member of TPS+ Take the Productivity Quiz If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!

Oct 1

Have you ever faced a challenge so overwhelming that it threatened to derail your focus, your goals, and even your sense of direction? Adversity strikes all of us, often when we least expect it. But what separates those who crumble under pressure from those who come out stronger is not luck; it’s resilience. In this encore episode, you’ll discover practical ways to regain your productivity when life throws curveballs. From shifting your focus to what you can actually control, to building momentum through small daily actions, this episode will leave you with tools and encouragement to move forward no matter the obstacles. Try Gusto today at gusto.com/TPS , and get 3 months free when you run your first payroll. Links: Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “ One Tweak A Week ” shirt. Gusto 25X Productivity Coaching If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , Overcast , Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!