Episodes
-
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1711:
Cal Newport explores the critical distinction between finding work you love and pursuing what he calls a “true calling.” He reveals how conflating passion with profession can leave us chasing illusions, and offers a more grounded path to career fulfillment by focusing on mastery and meaningful impact.
Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2010/04/09/corrupted-callings-the-subtle-difference-between-finding-your-lifes-work-and-loving-your-life/
Quotes to ponder:
"Just because you love something does not mean you have to make a career out of it."
"A true calling is not something you find, it’s something you grow into."
"The best way to find meaning in your life is to build a life around something bigger than yourself."
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.Episode 1710:Kate Erickson reveals why the most successful businesses thrive by focusing entirely on their customers' needs rather than their own internal goals. She also shares practical methods for overcoming frustration, helping entrepreneurs stay grounded and mission-driven even when challenges arise.Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.eofire.com/make-it-about-your-customer-not-your-business/ & https://www.eofire.com/dont-let-frustration-get-the-best-of-you/Quotes to ponder:"Your customers don’t care about your business; they care about themselves and what you can do for them.""If you lose your temper or let frustration get the best of you, you’ve already lost the battle.""Take a step back, breathe deeply, and remember your mission, not just for yourself but for those you serve."Episode references:Journaling App "Day One": https://dayoneapp.com/Meditation App "Headspace": https://www.headspace.com/The Compound Effect: https://www.amazon.com/Compound-Effect-Darren-Hardy/dp/159315724XLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
-
Missing episodes?
-
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1709:
Ryan H. Law explores the concept of deliberate learning, emphasizing how intentional practice and focused learning strategies can accelerate personal and professional growth. He also shares "The Parable of the Mexican Fisherman," a timeless story that reminds us to rethink success and happiness by aligning our ambitions with what truly matters.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://ryanhlaw.com/deliberate-learning/ & https://ryanhlaw.com/the-parable-of-the-mexican-fisherman/
Quotes to ponder:
"Knowledge is important, but deliberate learning is key."
"Imagine living simply and happily, instead of chasing after something you already have."
"Deliberate learning focuses on studying with purpose, measuring your progress, and adjusting as needed."
Episode references:
Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise: https://www.amazon.com/Peak-Secrets-New-Science-Expertise/dp/0544456238
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1708:
Ryan Hoover explores how nostalgia can be a potent emotional trigger in product design, enhancing user loyalty and deepening engagement. By subtly integrating elements of the past, designers can create products that resonate on a more personal and emotional level.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://medium.com/on-startups/nostalgia-a-product-designers-secret-weapon-641d4ec6b400
Quotes to ponder:
"Nostalgia, at its core, is a longing for the past, a past that we’ve emotionally edited into a better version than it might have been."
"The right dose of nostalgia can create an emotional shortcut, bypassing logic and heading straight for the heart."
"Smart product designers use nostalgia carefully, as an ingredient, not the main course."
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1707:
Carl Pullein breaks down how a structured weekly planning session can significantly boost your productivity and reduce stress. By aligning your tasks with clear goals and blocking time for focused work, you can regain control of your week and prevent overwhelm before it starts.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.carlpullein.com/blog/how-to-do-a-weekly-planning-session/18/11/2020-1
Quotes to ponder:
"A weekly planning session gives you the opportunity to take back control of your life."
"You are not planning tasks, you are planning time."
"When you know what needs doing and when you are going to do it, stress and overwhelm disappear."
Episode references:
Evernote: https://evernote.com/
Google Calendar: https://calendar.google.com/
Todoist: https://todoist.com/
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1706:
Nir Eyal breaks down how to build better habits by leveraging the same psychological principles that make apps and products so addictive. By understanding internal triggers and reinforcing behavior through simple, consistent cues, anyone can design habits that stick, without relying on sheer willpower.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.nirandfar.com/habit-forming/
Quotes to ponder:
"Behavior that gets rewarded gets repeated."
"The best products don’t win by being the most habit-forming, they win by being the most useful and easiest to use."
"All habits start with a trigger, a cue to act."
Episode references:
Atomic Habits: https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299
BJ Fogg’s Behavior Model: https://www.behaviormodel.org/
Hooked: https://www.amazon.com/Hooked-How-Build-Habit-Forming-Products/dp/1591847788
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1705:
Steve Pavlina shares ten practical and uplifting ways to transform your workspace into a zone of calm, creativity, and flow. From ambient soundscapes to personalized decor, his suggestions help reduce stress and boost productivity by turning your environment into a reflection of inner peace.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.stevepavlina.com/blog/2006/06/10-ways-to-relaxify-your-workspace/
Quotes to ponder:
"One of the simplest ways to reduce stress in your work environment is to make it more relaxing."
"A few well-placed plants can do wonders to improve the atmosphere of a room."
"Clutter is a form of visual distraction, and it can be a subtle source of stress."
Episode references:
The Power of Now: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Now-Guide-Spiritual-Enlightenment/dp/1577314808
The Relaxation Response: https://www.amazon.com/Relaxation-Response-Herbert-Benson/dp/0380006766
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1704:
Steve Pavlina shares ten practical strategies to transform your workspace into a more peaceful, inspiring, and productive environment. From optimizing lighting to incorporating soothing sounds, each tip is designed to help reduce stress and enhance mental clarity during your workday.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.stevepavlina.com/blog/2006/06/10-ways-to-relaxify-your-workspace/
Quotes to ponder:
"Add a little beauty to your workspace. It’s not just about aesthetics, it’s about feeding your spirit."
"Sometimes the best way to relaxify your workspace is to get rid of it."
"A simple speaker and a few ambient music tracks can go a long way toward making your workspace more peaceful."
Episode references:
Think and Grow Rich: https://www.amazon.com/Think-Grow-Rich-Landmark-Bestseller/dp/1585424331
Getting Things Done: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Things-Done-Stress-Free-Productivity/dp/0142000280
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1703:
Chris Guillebeau unpacks timeless lessons from launching over a dozen products, distilling insights that go far beyond profit margins. Learn how authenticity, storytelling, and strategic generosity can shape a loyal audience and drive sustainable success.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://chrisguillebeau.com/product-launch-lessons/
Quotes to ponder:
"Don’t try to make something for everyone. Make something for someone."
"If you’ve done a good job building trust, a launch isn’t a hard sell, it’s a natural next step."
"People don’t buy products, they join stories."
Episode references:
Side Hustle: https://www.amazon.com/Side-Hustle-Idea-Income-Without/dp/1524758841
The $100 Startup: https://www.amazon.com/100-Startup-Reinvent-Living-Create/dp/0307951529
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1702:
Laura Stack shares a strategic approach to help managers integrate new team members swiftly and effectively. By using clear communication, structured onboarding, and thoughtful mentoring, leaders can minimize downtime and turn new hires into productive contributors faster.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://theproductivitypro.com/blog/2017/03/easy-integration-getting-new-team-members-up-and-running-quickly/
Quotes to ponder:
"Make sure your new team member has a clear understanding of the organization’s vision, mission, and goals."
"Assign a mentor to shepherd your new employee through their first few weeks."
"Don’t assume the new team member knows what’s expected of them unless you tell them."
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1701:
Michael Levitt outlines the strategic value of integrating freelancers into your business, from boosting innovation to minimizing overhead costs. He also explores how employers can refine their hiring process to ensure candidates align with company culture, goals, and values, leading to stronger team cohesion and long-term success.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/four-reasons-why-your-business-needs-freelancers & https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-ensure-your-employees-are-fit-for-your-organization
Quotes to ponder:
"Freelancers bring in fresh perspectives and skills that can accelerate your business growth."
"A misaligned employee can impact morale, productivity, and even customer satisfaction."
"The right employee fit results in better performance, stronger engagement, and increased retention."
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1700:
Jen Hayes breaks down the common reasons why many blogs fail to generate income, highlighting the mindset traps and strategic missteps that hold bloggers back. With practical insights and tough love, she outlines how to shift from hobbyist to entrepreneur, and start treating your blog like a real business.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.jenhayes.me/why-your-blog-isnt-making-money-and-how-to-fix-it/
Quotes to ponder:
"Most bloggers treat their blog like a hobby, not a business."
"You can’t just slap up a blog, write whatever you feel like, and expect the money to start pouring in."
"Monetizing a blog is hard work. It takes time, consistency, strategy, and patience."
Episode references:
Smart Passive Income (Pat Flynn): https://www.smartpassiveincome.com
Elite Blog Academy: https://eliteblogacademy.com
ProBlogger: https://problogger.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1699:
Erin Blaskie unpacks how the halo effect can be strategically used to build a powerful, cohesive brand presence. By aligning perception with experience, entrepreneurs can create trust faster and influence how others perceive everything from their work to their worth.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.erinblaskie.com/blog/branding-halo-effect
Quotes to ponder:
"When people perceive one positive trait, like being attractive or confident, they often assume other positive traits follow."
"By simply showing up consistently and aligning what we say with how we show up, we can influence how people perceive everything else about us."
"If your website is beautiful, people assume your work is of the same calibre."
Episode references:
The Halo Effect by Phil Rosenzweig: https://www.amazon.com/Halo-Effect-Business-Delusions-Distort/dp/1476784035
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1698:
Cal Newport challenges the conventional wisdom that quick email replies signify productivity, revealing how excessive time spent on email can reduce overall effectiveness. He introduces the "E-mail Productivity Curve" to show that after a certain point, more responsiveness leads to diminishing, and even negative, returns in meaningful work output.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.calnewport.com/blog/2015/06/18/the-e-mail-productivity-curve/
Quotes to ponder:
"Imagine a graph where the x-axis is time spent in your inbox per day, and the y-axis is your productivity. I call this the E-mail Productivity Curve."
"Once you pass a certain threshold, increased time in your inbox makes you less effective, not more."
"The easiest way to push past the productivity sweet spot is to try to be hyper responsive to e-mails."
Episode references:
Deep Work: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Work-Focused-Success-Distracted/dp/1455586692
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1697:
Neal Samudre reveals the key ingredients behind writing content that goes viral, focusing on how emotional connection, simplicity, and relatability drive people to share. Discover how to create messages that not only grab attention but inspire action through strategic storytelling.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://goinswriter.com/write-viral/
Quotes to ponder:
"Virality is about resonance. It’s about a message that spreads not just because it’s new, but because it feels familiar."
"Make your message simple, memorable, and emotional."
"People don’t share facts; they share feelings."
Episode references:
Contagious: Why Things Catch On: https://jonahberger.com/books/contagious
Buzzsumo: https://buzzsumo.com
Made to Stick: https://heathbrothers.com/books/made-to-stick
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1696:
James Altucher lays out a raw and honest look at what it truly means to be an entrepreneur, not when you have a business card or a dream, but when you've navigated failure, reinvented yourself, and found a way to earn back trust and money. His insights cut through the glamorized startup myths, offering a reality check that's both sobering and empowering for anyone on the entrepreneurial path.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://jamesaltucher.com/blog/you-can-call-yourself-an-entrepreneur-when/
Quotes to ponder:
"You’re not an entrepreneur when you have an idea. You’re not an entrepreneur when you have a business card."
"You’re an entrepreneur when you make a sale. When you build something valuable."
"Every time I failed, I had to reinvent myself. And it was always painful."
Episode references:
Choose Yourself: https://www.amazon.com/Choose-Yourself-James-Altucher/dp/1490313370
The Dip by Seth Godin: https://www.amazon.com/Dip-Little-Book-Teaches-Quit/dp/1591841666
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1695:
Christine Comaford outlines how to craft a financing pitch that captivates investors by tapping into both logic and emotion. Learn how to engage the brain's decision-making triggers, build trust fast, and differentiate your offer in a crowded market.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://smarttribesinstitute.com/make-your-financing-pitch-sizzle/
Quotes to ponder:
"To connect with your audience and compel them to act, you must speak to all three parts of their brain: the reptilian, the mammalian, and the neocortex."
"Investors are bombarded with pitches, so yours must be clear, concise, and compelling."
"Show your humanity, tell the story of why you’re doing this venture and why it matters to you."
Episode references:
The Challenger Sale: https://www.amazon.com/Challenger-Sale-Control-Customer-Conversation/dp/1591844355
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1694:
Tynan lays out a refreshingly pragmatic approach to work, emphasizing that consistent effort and smart prioritization matter far more than passion or burnout-inducing hustle. He dismantles the myths around productivity and instead encourages readers to focus on creating value while aligning work with a sustainable lifestyle.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://tynan.com/work/
Quotes to ponder:
"Work isn't about working hard or being passionate, it's about creating value."
"The biggest factor in how much work you do is whether or not you actually sit down and do it."
"I’m not particularly passionate about any work I do, but I love the life that doing that work enables."
Episode references:
Getting Things Done: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Things-Done-Stress-Free-Productivity/dp/0143126563
Trello: https://trello.com
RescueTime: https://www.rescuetime.com
Deep Work: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Work-Focused-Success-Distracted/dp/1455586692
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1693:
Max Ogles dives into the psychological roots of tech addiction, revealing why our compulsive habits persist and how we can reverse them without extreme digital detoxes. With a blend of behavioral science and practical steps, he outlines a realistic approach to reclaiming focus in a world engineered for distraction.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.nirandfar.com/rehab/
Quotes to ponder:
"Distraction, it turns out, isn’t about the tech itself, it’s about our relationship to it."
"The solution isn’t abstinence. The solution is mastery."
"We shouldn’t fear technology; we should fear using it mindlessly."
Episode references:
Indistractable: How to Control Your Attention and Choose Your Life: https://www.amazon.com/Indistractable-Control-Your-Attention-Choose/dp/194883653X
Time Well Spent (Center for Humane Technology): https://www.humanetech.com/
Freedom App: https://freedom.to/
Forest App: https://www.forestapp.cc/
RescueTime: https://www.rescuetime.com/
Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products: https://www.amazon.com/Hooked-How-Build-Habit-Forming-Products/dp/1591847788
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com.
Episode 1692:
Jeff Cornwall urges aspiring entrepreneurs to rethink two foundational myths: the allure of being the first to market and the fear of transparency. He cautions against launching simply because no one else is doing it and reveals how embracing honesty builds credibility, strengthens relationships, and leads to more resilient ventures.
Read along with the original article(s) here: https://drjeffcornwall.com/2018/02/25/just-because-nobody-is-doing-it-is-not-a-reason-to-launch/ & https://drjeffcornwall.com/2021/02/22/honesty-makes-you-stronger/
Quotes to ponder:
"Just because nobody is doing it does not mean it is a good idea."
"The reality is that full and open honesty actually makes entrepreneurs stronger."
"Transparency builds trust with your stakeholders and gives you credibility that will help get you through the rough patches that all entrepreneurs face."
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices - Show more
![1711: [Part 1] Corrupted Callings: The Subtle Difference Between Finding Your Life's Work and Loving Your Life by Cal Newport](https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts126/v4/96/26/6d/96266d0f-8595-09d8-f1c9-ea347558c32c/mza_7164083858390038558.jpg/80x80bb.jpg)