Podcasts about macsparky

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I chat with Shawn Lemon, digital organizer and founder of The Digital Organizer. Shawn has helped countless individuals and organizations regain control of their digital lives, offering practical solutions to manage clutter, streamline workflows, and achieve “digital peace.”We explore the hidden challenges of digital organization, why redundancy and backups are crucial, and how to get started on the path to a clutter-free digital life. Shawn's approach is practical, insightful, and perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed by their digital environment.Key Discussion Points What “digital peace” means and why it's so important. Common mistakes people make with digital organization. How to deal with folder structures and document redundancy. Practical strategies for creating effective backups. When and where to start tackling digital clutter. How AI can play a role in organizing your digital life. This episode is ideal for anyone looking to take control of their digital world and create a more organized, peaceful workflow.Links Worth Exploring Connect with Shawn: Website | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram | Facebook Get Shawn's guide: Click here Take Shawn's quiz: Click here Check out Hazel Want to leverage Hazel in the best way possible? MacSparky has you covered. Check out ClickUp Check out Amplenote Related Conversation: Episode 448: Tiago Forte talks about Building a Second Brain Related Blog Post: The Freeing Power of Eliminating Tasks You “Ought to Do” Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I chat with Shawn Lemon, digital organizer and founder of The Digital Organizer. Shawn has helped countless individuals and organizations regain control of their digital lives, offering practical solutions to manage clutter, streamline workflows, and achieve “digital peace.” We explore the hidden challenges of digital organization, why redundancy and backups are crucial, and how to get started on the path to a clutter-free digital life. Shawn's approach is practical, insightful, and perfect for anyone feeling overwhelmed by their digital environment. Key Discussion Points What “digital peace” means and why it's so important. Common mistakes people make with digital organization. How to deal with folder structures and document redundancy. Practical strategies for creating effective backups. When and where to start tackling digital clutter. How AI can play a role in organizing your digital life. This episode is ideal for anyone looking to take control of their digital world and create a more organized, peaceful workflow. Links Worth Exploring Connect with Shawn: Website | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram | Facebook Get Shawn's guide: Click here Take Shawn's quiz: Click here Check out Hazel Want to leverage Hazel in the best way possible? MacSparky has you covered. Check out ClickUp Check out Amplenote Related Conversation: Episode 448: Tiago Forte talks about Building a Second Brain Related Blog Post: The Freeing Power of Eliminating Tasks You “Ought to Do” Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page. Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. You can subscribe on Spotify and also on Apple Podcasts. Not using either of those to get your podcasts? Just click on this link and then paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice. Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us a textWatch the video!https://youtu.be/0dLyiURLOOcIn the News blog post for December 13, 2024:https://www.iphonejd.com/iphone_jd/2024/12/in-the-news757.html 00:00 Siri, Genmoji, and ChatGPT Walk into a Bar…23:05 Jeff's Ultrawide Desktop33:35 Juggling Apples Very Well 36:35 iPhone Playing Nice with Windows41:34 Best Apps List from MacStories45:02 Just the Outlet, Ma'am47:17 MacSparky's Apple Watch Buyer's Guide48:21 In the Show! Golden Globe Apples52:22 Blowin' Buble's Mind1:00:52 Brett's Fav 18.2 Tip: Sharing AirTag's Location1:03:43 Jeff's Fav 18.2 Tip: Sender Icons in MailChance Miller | 9to5Mac: iOS 18.2 launching today with most compelling Apple Intelligence features yetJustin Meyers | Gadget Hacks: The Complete iOS 18.2 Features Guide — Here's Everything New and Improved for Your iPhoneFrederico Viticci | MacStories: Apple Intelligence in iOS 18.2: A Deep Dive into Working with Siri and ChatGPT, TogetherNiléane | MacStores: iOS and iPadOS 18.2: Everything New Besides Apple IntelligenceJuli Clover | MacRumors: Apple Releases HomePod Software 18.2 With Natural Language Search for Apple MusicJuli Clover | MacRumors: Apple Releases tvOS 18.2 With Snoopy Screen Savers and Projector SupportReddit: Al Gore sitting in front of three 30” Apple Cinema Displays - the first ever 30” displays in the b2c computer segment.Jeff's Review: Belkin Head Strap for Apple Vision ProRay Smith | The Wall Street Journal: Apple Tops the List of Best-Managed Companies of 2024Window Insider Program Team: Sharing files between your iPhone® and Windows PC rolling out to Windows InsidersMacStories Team: MacStories Selects 2024: Recognizing the Best Apps of the YearTim Hardwick | MacRumors: TP-Link Launches Tapo Smart In-Wall Outlet With Matter SupportDavid Sparks: MacSparky's 2024 Apple Watch Buyer's GuideBrett's Fav 18.2 Tip: Support the showBrett Burney from http://www.appsinlaw.comJeff Richardson from http://www.iphonejd.com

David Sparks is the co-host of Mac Power Users, Focused, and the Automators Podcast. You can also find his Field Guides and work at MacSparky.com. In this episode we discuss his thoughts on the Apple Vision Pro, how he is using visionOS, what he loves most about visionOS 2, and he shares some tips for those coming back to the Mac. Early episodes with chapter markers are available by supporting the podcast at www.visionpros.fm/patreon. Early episodes are also now available in Apple Podcasts!Show notes are available at www.VisionPros.fm. Feedback is welcomed at tim@visionpros.fm.Links: - https://www.macsparky.com- https://ipadpros.net/2020/11/19/episode-99-david-sparks-from-macsparky/- https://ipadpros.net/2021/10/28/episode-126-devonthink-with-david-sparks/- https://ipadpros.net/2023/11/09/episode-184-obsidian-with-david-sparks/Chapter Markers:00:00:00: Opening00:02:01: Support The Podcast00:02:36: David Sparks00:04:16: Your expectations00:06:35: Working in new places00:09:48: The Mac00:13:19: How Often Do You Wear The Apple Vision Pro?00:16:47: Immersive videos00:18:59: Comfort modifications00:20:22: Writing00:21:43: visionOS 200:26:05: Environments00:27:39: Giant Whiteboard00:30:52: Apple Mail00:32:35: Any Other General Apple Vision Pro thoughts00:35:03: Back To The Mac00:43:17: What Apps Do You Want In visionOS?00:47:48: Meditation00:49:36: Galleries00:50:08: Favorite Mac Utilities00:53:26: Settings00:55:58: Shortcuts00:57:33: Synology00:59:38: The Mac01:02:54: Where can people follow you online?01:04:21: Closing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Omni Show, Andrew J. Mason chats with David Spark...

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 22:00:00 GMT http://relay.fm/mpu/722 http://relay.fm/mpu/722 Bringing Devices Together 722 David Sparks and Stephen Hackett On this feedback episode, the guys revisit Apple Notes, talk about Name Drop and David shares the good news about a new battery pack. On this feedback episode, the guys revisit Apple Notes, talk about Name Drop and David shares the good news about a new battery pack. clean 6387 On this feedback episode, the guys revisit Apple Notes, talk about Name Drop and David shares the good news about a new battery pack. This episode of Mac Power Users is sponsored by: 1Password: Never forget a password again. MasterClass: Give one annual Membership and get one free. Squarespace: Save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code MPU. Tailscale: Secure remote access to shared resources. Sign up today. Links and Show Notes: Sign up for the MPU email newsletter and join the MPU forums. More Power Users: Ad-free episodes with regular bonus segments Submit Feedback Give the Gift of Relay FMGet 20% off any annual Relay FM membership! Mac Power Users #1: All About E-Mail - Relay FM Evernote pushes users to upgrade with test of a free plan limited to only 50 notes | TechCrunch Mac Power Users #548: Jumping Into Markdown - Relay FM Daring Fireball: Markdown Markdown Field Guide - MacSparky ProNotes PopClip for Mac Daily notes - Obsidian Help Day One Journal App Introducing Goodnotes 6: the Goodnotes Blog Mac Power Users #719: The 2023 MPU Gift Guide - Relay FM Stainless Mug SM-SHE48/60 – Zojirushi Online Store Amazon.com: Think Tank Photo Red Whips V2.0 RovyVon Aurora A8 Keychain Flashlight Cool Tech You'll Actually Want! - Snazzy Labs on YouTube Police Departments and News Sites Spreading Misinformation About How iOS 17 NameDrop Feature Works - MacRumors Keyboard Maestro 11 Automators #141: Keyboard Maestro Goes to 11 - Relay FM Retrobatch 2 Bartender 5 Exploring Bartender 5 - MacSparky on YouTube Play: Save Videos Watch Later on the App Store Play 2.0 Adds YouTube Channel Support, Folders, and a New Premium Subscription - MacStories Prompter | Elgato Amazon.com: Anker Prime Power Bank with 100W Charging Base

Sun, 10 Dec 2023 22:00:00 GMT http://relay.fm/mpu/722 http://relay.fm/mpu/722 David Sparks and Stephen Hackett On this feedback episode, the guys revisit Apple Notes, talk about Name Drop and David shares the good news about a new battery pack. On this feedback episode, the guys revisit Apple Notes, talk about Name Drop and David shares the good news about a new battery pack. clean 6387 On this feedback episode, the guys revisit Apple Notes, talk about Name Drop and David shares the good news about a new battery pack. This episode of Mac Power Users is sponsored by: 1Password: Never forget a password again. MasterClass: Give one annual Membership and get one free. Squarespace: Save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code MPU. Tailscale: Secure remote access to shared resources. Sign up today. Links and Show Notes: Sign up for the MPU email newsletter and join the MPU forums. More Power Users: Ad-free episodes with regular bonus segments Submit Feedback Give the Gift of Relay FMGet 20% off any annual Relay FM membership! Mac Power Users #1: All About E-Mail - Relay FM Evernote pushes users to upgrade with test of a free plan limited to only 50 notes | TechCrunch Mac Power Users #548: Jumping Into Markdown - Relay FM Daring Fireball: Markdown Markdown Field Guide - MacSparky ProNotes PopClip for Mac Daily notes - Obsidian Help Day One Journal App Introducing Goodnotes 6: the Goodnotes Blog Mac Power Users #719: The 2023 MPU Gift Guide - Relay FM Stainless Mug SM-SHE48/60 – Zojirushi Online Store Amazon.com: Think Tank Photo Red Whips V2.0 RovyVon Aurora A8 Keychain Flashlight Cool Tech You'll Actually Want! - Snazzy Labs on YouTube Police Departments and News Sites Spreading Misinformation About How iOS 17 NameDrop Feature Works - MacRumors Keyboard Maestro 11 Automators #141: Keyboard Maestro Goes to 11 - Relay FM Retrobatch 2 Bartender 5 Exploring Bartender 5 - MacSparky on YouTube Play: Save Videos Watch Later on the App Store Play 2.0 Adds YouTube Channel Support, Folders, and a New Premium Subscription - MacStories Prompter | Elgato Amazon.com: Anker Prime Power Bank with 100W Charging Base

In this episode from September of 2014, David Sparks, fondly known as "MacSparky," joins the conversation to reminisce about the evolving landscape of task management since we last met at Macworld. Dive into the fascinating world of productivity apps, the significance of establishing efficient systems, and the therapeutic benefits of journaling – and take note of what's changed (and what hasn't in the 9 years since I first aired this productive conversation.Key Discussion Points The Changing Landscape of Productivity The "Gold Rush" for Email Apps Balancing Work-Life as a Lawyer (Note: David stopped practicing law in 2022.) The Internet's Repetitive Nature The Benefits of Systems and Tools The Therapeutic Power of Journaling Embracing Journaling in Daily Routines David's insights underline the pivotal role of systems, tools, and journaling in navigating today's bustling professional environment. Whether you're a productivity aficionado or someone looking for balance, this episode promises actionable wisdom.Links Worth Exploring Connect with David: Website | Mastodon | Instagram MacSparky Labs: Join here My Appearance on Focused: Listen here Our Conversation on Mac Power Users: Listen here Related Conversation: Episode 409: Luke Burgis talks about Wanting, Journaling, and Fulfillment Related Blog Post: Why You Need To Review (And How To Make It Easier To Do) Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page.Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen.Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | StitcherYou can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice.Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode from September of 2014, David Sparks, fondly known as "MacSparky," joins the conversation to reminisce about the evolving landscape of task management since we last met at Macworld. Dive into the fascinating world of productivity apps, the significance of establishing efficient systems, and the therapeutic benefits of journaling – and take note of what's changed (and what hasn't in the 9 years since I first aired this productive conversation. Key Discussion Points The Changing Landscape of Productivity The "Gold Rush" for Email Apps Balancing Work-Life as a Lawyer (Note: David stopped practicing law in 2022.) The Internet's Repetitive Nature The Benefits of Systems and Tools The Therapeutic Power of Journaling Embracing Journaling in Daily Routines David's insights underline the pivotal role of systems, tools, and journaling in navigating today's bustling professional environment. Whether you're a productivity aficionado or someone looking for balance, this episode promises actionable wisdom. Links Worth Exploring Connect with David: Website | Mastodon | Instagram MacSparky Labs: Join here My Appearance on Focused: Listen here Our Conversation on Mac Power Users: Listen here Related Conversation: Episode 409: Luke Burgis talks about Wanting, Journaling, and Fulfillment Related Blog Post: Why You Need To Review (And How To Make It Easier To Do) Thanks to all of the sponsors of this episode. You can find all of the sponsors you heard me mention on this episode on our Podcast Sponsors page. Want to support the podcast? Beyond checking out our sponsors, you can subscribe to the show wherever you listen to podcasts. Click on any of the links below to make that happen. Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Stitcher You can also click on this link to paste the podcast feed into your podcast app of choice. Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Sparks, creador de MacSparky, ha publicado los resultados de una encuesta que ha hecho a usuarios del Apple Watch en torno al uso que hacen de él. Lo cual nos permite entender un poco mejor cómo pude ser ese uso del reloj… y todo lo que falta en él. La encuesta de MacSparky: https://www.macsparky.com/blog/2023/08/all-the-gory-details-of-the-apple-watch-survey/ Loop Infinito es un podcast de Applesfera, presentado por Javier Lacort y editado por Santi Araújo. Contacta con el autor en Twitter (@jlacort) o por correo (lacort@xataka.com). Gracias por escuchar este podcast.

In this Mac Geek Gab episode, Dave Hamilton and Pilot Pete start with app permissions and then dive into the world of shortcuts, offering valuable resources like MacSparky's field guide. Listener Ben contributes a shortcut for opening folders in the Finder, and the hosts discuss the magic of the option […]

In a post entitled, Hyper-Scheduling, David Sparks (a/k/a MacSparky) writes about his method of time blocking on a granular level.

In this episode, I talk with David Sparks. David is a self-described lifelong nerd in the world of Apple technology, and for more than 15 years, has been publishing his writing, screencasts, and other content on his website, MacSparky. He's also a podcast host on several Relay.fm podcasts (Mac Power Users, Focused, and Automators), and runs a membership program on his site through which David offers even more content that others can use to help improve their lives through technology. Links to David's WorkMacSparky.comMacSparky LabsAutomators - Relay FMFocused - Relay FM Mac Power Users - Relay FMA Collection of David's Posts on Hyper Scheduling & Time ManagementLinks to Other Work MentionedFocused #149: Asking Questions, with Marc Champagne - Relay FMBehind the Human (Marc Champagne)Wall Street Journal's Study on TikTok's AlgorithmDavid's Inspirations & RecommendationsDetectoristsDoc MartinShow LinksCreative Consumption Website

In the second part of our conversation with David Sparks, we talk about the evolution of our software tools and how his legal education influences his approach to the many MarSparky projects. David also gives us a different perspective on the debate over whether the Mac and iPad are or even should come together. (Part 2)  This edition of MacVoices is supported by The MacVoices Slack. Available to silver, gold, and platinum Patrons of MacVoices. Sign up at Patreon.com/macvoices. Show Notes: Links: Shortcuts for Mac Field Guide (Standard Version) Shortcuts for Mac Field Guide ( Plus Version) Use the code ILoveChuck to receive 10% off David's Shortcuts Field Guides Guests: David Sparks  is a trial attorney who gave up his law practice to become a full-time geek.. David publishes MacSparky.com and is the co-host of the Mac Power Users podcast. He is also part of the Focused and Automators podcasts, and publishes his Field Guide series of training at Learn.MacSparky.com, among other-MacSparky-related projects.. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon      http://patreon.com/macvoices      Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web:      http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner      http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Facebook:      http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook:      http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook:      http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn:      https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram:      https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe:      Audio in iTunes      Video in iTunes      Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss      Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

We catch up with David Sparks to discuss a variety of topics, including his transition away from the practice of law and how MacSparkly.com has evolved and grown. Next, we touch on his new Shortcuts for Mac Field Guide, why shortcuts on the Mac got off to a rough start, and how it has improved in recent versions. (Part 1) This edition of MacVoices is supported by Zocdoc. Find local doctors who take your insurance at Zocdoc.com/macvoices. Show Notes: Links: Shortcuts for Mac Field Guide (Standard Version) Shortcuts for Mac Field Guide ( Plus Version) Guests: David Sparks  is a trial attorney who gave up his law practice to become a full-time geek.. David publishes MacSparky.com and is the co-host of the Mac Power Users podcast. He is also part of the Focused and Automators podcasts, and publishes his Field Guide series of training at Learn.MacSparky.com, among other-MacSparky-related projects.. Support: Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon      http://patreon.com/macvoices      Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect: Web:      http://macvoices.com Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner      http://www.twitter.com/macvoices Facebook:      http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner MacVoices Page on Facebook:      http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/ MacVoices Group on Facebook:      http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice LinkedIn:      https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/ Instagram:      https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe:      Audio in iTunes      Video in iTunes      Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss      Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

We catch up with David Sparks to discuss a variety of topics, including his transition away from the practice of law and how MacSparkly.com has evolved and grown. Next, we touch on his new Shortcuts for Mac Field Guide, why shortcuts on the Mac got off to a rough start, and how it has improved in recent versions. (Part 1) This edition of MacVoices is supported by Zocdoc. Find local doctors who take your insurance at Zocdoc.com/macvoices. Show Notes: Links: Shortcuts for Mac Field Guide (Standard Version) Shortcuts for Mac Field Guide ( Plus Version) Guests: David Sparks  is a trial attorney who gave up his law practice to become a full-time geek.. David publishes MacSparky.com and is the co-host of the Mac Power Users podcast. He is also part of the Focused and Automators podcasts, and publishes his Field Guide series of training at Learn.MacSparky.com, among other-MacSparky-related projects.. Support:      Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon     http://patreon.com/macvoices      Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect:      Web:     http://macvoices.com      Twitter:     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner     http://www.twitter.com/macvoices      Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner      MacVoices Page on Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/      MacVoices Group on Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice      LinkedIn:     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/      Instagram:     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe:      Audio in iTunes     Video in iTunes      Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:      Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss      Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

In the second part of our conversation with David Sparks, we talk about the evolution of our software tools and how his legal education influences his approach to the many MarSparky projects. David also gives us a different perspective on the debate over whether the Mac and iPad are or even should come together. (Part 2)  This edition of MacVoices is supported by The MacVoices Slack. Available to silver, gold, and platinum Patrons of MacVoices. Sign up at Patreon.com/macvoices. Show Notes: Links: Shortcuts for Mac Field Guide (Standard Version) Shortcuts for Mac Field Guide ( Plus Version) Use the code ILoveChuck to receive 10% off David's Shortcuts Field Guides Guests: David Sparks  is a trial attorney who gave up his law practice to become a full-time geek.. David publishes MacSparky.com and is the co-host of the Mac Power Users podcast. He is also part of the Focused and Automators podcasts, and publishes his Field Guide series of training at Learn.MacSparky.com, among other-MacSparky-related projects.. Support:      Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon     http://patreon.com/macvoices      Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect:      Web:     http://macvoices.com      Twitter:     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner     http://www.twitter.com/macvoices      Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner      MacVoices Page on Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/      MacVoices Group on Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice      LinkedIn:     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/      Instagram:     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe:      Audio in iTunes     Video in iTunes      Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:      Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss      Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

In this episode I speak with David Sparks who is known in internet circles as MacSparky. For more than 28 years, David was a business law attorney first at George & Shields, LLP and then more recently at his own law firm called Sparks Law based in Irvine, California. But in perhaps a first for the How I Lawyer podcast, I invited David on the show knowing full well that he recently left the practice of law altogether. In addition to being a lawyer, over the past fifteen years David has also become a recognized expert in consumer technology (including, but not limited, to Mac products) and productivity. As part of his MacSparky business, he podcasts and writes about getting more out of consumer technology, automating your life, and getting more focused. He hosts multiple podcasts including Mac Power Users, Focus, and the Automators. You can find all of his work at www.macsparky.com. In our conversation we discuss his decision to attend law school as a science student, his career transitions from litigator to "country doctor" lawyer to consumer technology expert, building a practice based on providing the best service and not necessarily the biggest bottom line, how referring business to other lawyers supported his growing law practice, the power of effective information management systems and processes in a lawyer's life, the importance of attention management and using technology to help our focus and efficiency as opposed to harming it, ways to use automation better as a lawyer, the need to protect time for high impact knowledge work, and why the most expensive technology is not always the best for practicing lawyers.  If you enjoy this episode, please make sure to sign up for future episodes at www.howilawyer.com or to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. This episode is sponsored, edited, and engineered by LawPods, a professional podcast production company for busy attorneys.

Today, I am sharing my conversation with David Sparks. David practiced law for close to 30 years and he has only recently left his job in the law to focus on his side hustle, MacSparky.  In our conversation, we spoke about many different things including what he has found surprising about leaving the law, some of the responses he's received, and lots of other things.  I'm excited to share this conversation unique story with you. So, let's get right into my conversation with David Sparks. See show notes at formerlawyer.com/140

David's made a few changes and it's time for an Automator-style audit. In this episode Rose and David cover email, task management, calendars, desktop setups, web automation, and more.

David's made a few changes and it's time for an Automator-style audit. In this episode Rose and David cover email, task management, calendars, desktop setups, web automation, and more.

After 15 years of living a double life, David has closed down his law practice and is now working on MacSparky projects full-time.

After 15 years of living a double life, David has closed down his law practice and is now working on MacSparky projects full-time.

David Sparks is back on the podcast to discuss DEVONthink and how his computer usage has shifted this past year with the introduction of the 6th generation iPad mini and the M1 Macs. David is the host of the Mac Power Users podcast and just released a new Field Guide all about DEVONthink. You can find all of his work at MacSparky.com. A quick note from Tim Chaten the host of the podcast. If anyone would like to purchase my Series 5 Apple Watch, 44mm in Stainless Steel Gold with the original gold Milanese loop it is available for $450 shipped (United States only). Please reach out to iPadProsPodcast@gmail.com if interested. The watch is brand new as a replacement from Apple with AppleCare+ and the watch band has had minimal use and is in great condition. The Series 7 in this configuration costs $799. Bonus content and early episodes with chapter markers are available by supporting the podcast at www.patreon.com/ipadpros. Bonus content and early episodes are also now available in Apple Podcasts! Subscribe today to get instant access to iPad Possibilities, iPad Ponderings, and iPad Historia! New episodes of the bonus shows release the first week of every month. Show notes are available at www.iPadPros.net. Feedback is welcomed at iPadProsPodcast@gmail.com.Chapter Markers00:00:00: Opening00:01:03: Free Focus Webinar     https://event.webinarjam.com/register/12/gvo24f400:01:18: $5 Off - DT Field Guide00:01:36: Brand New Series 5 For Sale00:02:34: David Sparks00:05:44: Widgets and Focus Mode00:10:50: When is the iPad the right tool?00:15:53: iPad mini00:18:22: iPad Pro versus mini?00:20:23: Yamaha YDS 150 Digital Saxophone     https://www.altomusic.com/yamaha-yds-150-digital-saxophone-yds150#00:22:03: Bluetooth Pedals00:22:18: AirTurn BT20000:24:33: Focus Mode00:26:35: Focus Mode Webinar00:26:54: DEVONthink00:30:29: Email00:32:46: AI00:33:58: OCR00:35:44: Appending DT Links00:36:58: Web Extensions00:38:30: Automation via Tags00:40:49: Reading List00:41:27: PDF Markup00:42:04: The Field Guide00:43:04: FIles app00:45:24: Sync00:47:42: Links00:49:39: Widgets for DT?00:50:28: Labels vs Tags00:52:12: Multiple Windows00:52:40: Shortcuts?00:53:48: Replicate vs Duplicate00:54:49: Smart Groups00:55:47: Live Text00:56:45: New discoveries?00:58:13: Anything else?00:58:25: iHeartTim "ihearttim"01:00:15: Notes01:00:48: Learn.MacSparky.com01:02:05: Closing See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

In this episode we reflect on Oliver Burkeman's recent column, Escaping the Efficiency Trap - And Finding Some Piece of Mind and the paradoxical reality that the relentless pursuit of efficiency in our jobs and lives often leads to chronic inefficiency. People, products and links mentioned in this episode:Coach Bobby Bowden dies at 91SisyphusEscaping the Efficiency Trap and Finding Some Peace of Mind by Oliver BurkemanPomodoro Timers and Eisenhower Box techniques:Chasing Productivity & Creativity in WFHFocus Matrix and BeFocused AppsPast Reflections on StructureGetting Things Done by David AllenConflicted podcastDavid Sparks (aka MacSparky) and "moving the needle"

This week our guest for Chit Chat Across the Pond is Mike Price, also known as @Grumpy in the podfeet slack and our live show chat room. During the live NosillaCast, I have to perform a super repetitive set of tasks to add chapter marks as I'm recording the show. If you enjoy there _being_ chapter marks, you should give partial thanks to Mike, because he figured out how to automate the process for me using Keyboard Maestro from keyboardmaestro.com/... The thing that fascinated me was that he didn't know Keyboard Maestro before creating this automation for me. In this conversation he explains what Keyboard Maestro is, how he learned it, and what you can do with it. I asked him to break down each panel of the software for me methodically and explain the interface, because while I've done some super simple automations with Keyboard Maestro, the interface continues to confuse me. David Sparks has one of his famous Field Guides on Keyboard Maestro, which are really mini-video tutorials. Mike watched David's Field Guide to learn the tool, so I've included my affiliate link in case you want to learn from the great MacSparky yourself: learn.macsparky.com/... Mike is funny, articulate, and a brilliant developer. We used a Google Doc to collaborate on an outline, and Mike added enough detail that I think it could be really valuable for you as a reference guid for our discussion so I've included it in the shownotes: CCATP notes with Mike at docs.google.com/... Mike also promised to provide the Keyboard Maestro macros that he talked about during the show: DoNotifications, Grumpy's Hindy Chapter Marks, and possibly the most useful, his XKPasswd Macros to connect to Bart's awesome password creation tool. Here's a link to a zip file of his macros - remember to be cautious when downloading macros from the Internet so check them carefully before enabling them!

This week our guest for Chit Chat Across the Pond is Mike Price, also known as @Grumpy in the podfeet slack and our live show chat room. During the live NosillaCast, I have to perform a super repetitive set of tasks to add chapter marks as I'm recording the show. If you enjoy there _being_ chapter marks, you should give partial thanks to Mike, because he figured out how to automate the process for me using Keyboard Maestro from keyboardmaestro.com/... The thing that fascinated me was that he didn't know Keyboard Maestro before creating this automation for me. In this conversation he explains what Keyboard Maestro is, how he learned it, and what you can do with it. I asked him to break down each panel of the software for me methodically and explain the interface, because while I've done some super simple automations with Keyboard Maestro, the interface continues to confuse me. David Sparks has one of his famous Field Guides on Keyboard Maestro, which are really mini-video tutorials. Mike watched David's Field Guide to learn the tool, so I've included my affiliate link in case you want to learn from the great MacSparky yourself: learn.macsparky.com/... Mike is funny, articulate, and a brilliant developer. We used a Google Doc to collaborate on an outline, and Mike added enough detail that I think it could be really valuable for you as a reference guid for our discussion so I've included it in the shownotes: CCATP notes with Mike at docs.google.com/... Mike also promised to provide the Keyboard Maestro macros that he talked about during the show: DoNotifications, Grumpy's Hindy Chapter Marks, and possibly the most useful, his XKPasswd Macros to connect to Bart's awesome password creation tool. Here's a link to a zip file of his macros - remember to be cautious when downloading macros from the Internet so check them carefully before enabling them!

In this episode of the Apple @ Work podcast, Bradley is joined by David Sparks from MacSparky to discuss using Apple products as a lawyer. Links mentioned in this episode Mac Power Users Podcast MacSparky Sponsor 9to5Mac Apple Repair Services Connect with Bradley Twitter LinkedIn Listen and Subscribe Apple Podcasts Overcast Spotify Pocket Casts Castro RSS

David Sparks is an Orange County, California business attorney and a geek. David is also a podcaster, blogger, and author who writes about finding the best tools, hardware, and workflows for using Apple products to get work done. David also writes for Macworld magazine and speaks about technology. In this episode we discuss what role the iPad has in his work and life. You can find David's work at MacSparky.com. This episode of iPad Pros is sponsored by Agenda, an elegant new take on notes for iPad, iPhone, and the Mac. Learn more at www.agenda.com. Agenda is a date-focused note taking app for both planning and documenting your projects. From business professionals and technical users, to students and artists, Agenda is for anyone wanting well organized and easily navigable notes that help drive your projects forward.Bonus content and early episodes are available by supporting the podcast at www.patreon.com/ipadpros. Show notes are available at www.iPadPros.net. Feedback is welcomed at iPadProsPodcast@gmail.com. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

I have a confession that won’t be much of a confession once you start listening to this episode. I’m a big fan of David Sparks. I think he does great work in several different areas an I’m excited to talk to him about how he does it. We also both happen to be big fans of Disney and Star Wars. When we spoke, he was just coming off his first ever Sabbatical – so we’ll get into that and how he manages to put out what must be dozens of hours of field guides while also running a law practice. (more…) View on separate page Transcript Sponsored by:Yes Plz: Get $5 off your subscription with code HIBI at checkout!iThemes: Get 20% off with code HOWIBUILTITTextExpander: Get 20% off your first year by visiting the this link. Source

I'm excited to have as our guest David Sparks!  Many of you know David from his popular podcast, Mac Power Users.  Dave and his co-host have been doing MPU for over a decade.  But many do not realize that Dave is also a seasoned litigator with many years of experience.  Join us in the first of our two-part podcast where Dave and I talk about tech tips he has that cover both Mac and Windows.  We also cover tech tips he uses in and out of the courtroom.  Enjoy! Show Notes for Part 1: David can be found at: Mac Sparky - www.macsparky.com Mac Power Users at Relay.FM - https://www.relay.fm/mpu Sparks Law - http://www.sparksesq.com On Twitter - https://twitter.com/MacSparky Links to topics we discussed: Windows v. Mac cost study by IBM:  https://www.computerworld.com/article/3452847/ibm-mac-users-are-happier-and-more-productive.html TextExpander for both Mac and Windows - https://textexpander.com Presentations Field Guide by MacSparky - https://www.macsparky.com/presentations Simple Trial Prep Tech - Trial Pad - https://www.litsoftware.com/trialpad Other Software from Trial Pad Creators - https://www.litsoftware.com More to come when we post Part 2!

We caught up with David Sparks to talk about his two latest Field Guides, Keyboard Maestro Field Guide, covering the automation utility and Photos Field Guide (2nd Edition), covering Apple’s Photos app. For Photos. In the former, Keyboard Maestro has made some updates and additions, including compatibility with the Stream Deck, and David talks about how to use it to your advantage. In the latter, David covers the Mac, iPhone, and iPad version of the program, talks about which platform he prefers for editing photos, and why photos for the book feature his new dog and not Disneyland. This edition of MacVoices is supported by Linode, high performance cloud hosting and virtual servers for everyone. To take $20 off your first order, visit Linode.com/macvoices. Show Notes: Guests: David Sparks  is a trial attorney who finally came out of the closet and admitted he was a nerd several years ago. David publishes MacSparky.com and is the co-host of the Mac Power Users podcast. He is also part of the Focused and Automators podcasts, and publishes his Field Guide series of training at Learn.MacSparky.com.  Links: Stream Deck Mini Stream Deck Stream Deck XL   Support:      Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon     http://patreon.com/macvoices      Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect:      Web:     http://macvoices.com      Twitter:     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner     http://www.twitter.com/macvoices      Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner      MacVoices Page on Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/      MacVoices Group on Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice      LinkedIn:     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/      Instagram:     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe:      Audio in iTunes     Video in iTunes      Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:      Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss      Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

We caught up with David Sparks to talk about his two latest Field Guides, Keyboard Maestro Field Guide, covering the automation utility and Photos Field Guide (2nd Edition), covering Apple’s Photos app. For Photos. In the former, Keyboard Maestro has made some updates and additions, including compatibility with the Stream Deck, and David talks about how to use it to your advantage. In the latter, David covers the Mac, iPhone, and iPad version of the program, talks about which platform he prefers for editing photos, and why photos for the book feature his new dog and not Disneyland. This edition of MacVoices is supported by Linode, high performance cloud hosting and virtual servers for everyone. To take $20 off your first order, visit Linode.com/macvoices. Show Notes: Guests: David Sparks  is a trial attorney who finally came out of the closet and admitted he was a nerd several years ago. David publishes MacSparky.com and is the co-host of the Mac Power Users podcast. He is also part of the Focused and Automators podcasts, and publishes his Field Guide series of training at Learn.MacSparky.com.  Links: Stream Deck Mini Stream Deck Stream Deck XL   Support:      Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon     http://patreon.com/macvoices      Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect:      Web:     http://macvoices.com      Twitter:     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner     http://www.twitter.com/macvoices      Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner      MacVoices Page on Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/      MacVoices Group on Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice      LinkedIn:     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/      Instagram:     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe:      Audio in iTunes     Video in iTunes      Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:      Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss      Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

We caught up with David Sparks to talk about his two latest Field Guides, Keyboard Maestro Field Guide, covering the automation utility and Photos Field Guide (2nd Edition), covering Apple’s Photos app. For Photos. In the former, Keyboard Maestro has made some updates and additions, including compatibility with the Stream Deck, and David talks about how to use it to your advantage. In the latter, David covers the Mac, iPhone, and iPad version of the program, talks about which platform he prefers for editing photos, and why photos for the book feature his new dog and not Disneyland. This edition of MacVoices is supported by Linode, high performance cloud hosting and virtual servers for everyone. To take $20 off your first order, visit Linode.com/macvoices. Show Notes: Guests: David Sparks  is a trial attorney who finally came out of the closet and admitted he was a nerd several years ago. David publishes MacSparky.com and is the co-host of the Mac Power Users podcast. He is also part of the Focused and Automators podcasts, and publishes his Field Guide series of training at Learn.MacSparky.com.  Links: Stream Deck Mini Stream Deck Stream Deck XL   Support:      Become a MacVoices Patron on Patreon     http://patreon.com/macvoices      Enjoy this episode? Make a one-time donation with PayPal Connect:      Web:     http://macvoices.com      Twitter:     http://www.twitter.com/chuckjoiner     http://www.twitter.com/macvoices      Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/chuck.joiner      MacVoices Page on Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/macvoices/      MacVoices Group on Facebook:     http://www.facebook.com/groups/macvoice      LinkedIn:     https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckjoiner/      Instagram:     https://www.instagram.com/chuckjoiner/ Subscribe:      Audio in iTunes     Video in iTunes      Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:      Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss      Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss

******************** Ep2: Stephen Hackett ******************** TTTI: Links ----------- * talkingtotheinternet.com ( http://talkingtotheinternet.com ) * @tttipodcast ( https://twitter.com/TTTIpodcast ) * @hixsonorous ( https://twitter.com/hixsonorous ) * Support TTTI ( http://talkingtotheinternet.com/support ) * Feedback ( tttipodcast@gmail.com ) * Guest Recommendation? Send feedback using the link above Ep2: Links ---------- * @ismh ( https://twitter.com/ismh ) * Stephen Hackett ( https://www.relay.fm/people/stephenhackett ) * Relay FM ( https://www.relay.fm ) * 512pixels ( https://512pixels.net ) * 512pixels on YouTube ( https://www.youtube.com/512pixels ) * @512px ( https://twitter.com/512px ) Podcasts Mentioned * Ungeniused ( https://www.relay.fm/ungeniused ) * The Prompt ( https://www.relay.fm/prompt ) * The Pen Addict ( https://www.relay.fm/penaddict ) * Connected ( https://www.relay.fm/connected ) * Rocket ( https://www.relay.fm/rocket ) * Reconcilable Differences ( https://www.relay.fm/rd ) * Cortext ( https://www.relay.fm/cortex ) * Mac Power Users ( https://www.relay.fm/mpu ) * Flashback ( https://www.relay.fm/flashback ) * ATP - Accidental Tech Podcast ( https://atp.fm ) People Mentioned * @imyke ( https://twitter.com/imyke ) of RelayFm * @viticci ( https://twitter.com/viticci ) of MacStories * @SnazzyQ ( https://twitter.com/SnazzyQ ) of Flashback podcast * @jsnell ( https://twitter.com/jsnell ) of Upgrade podcast * @siracusa ( https://twitter.com/siracusa ) of Rec Diffs podcast * @hotdogsladies ( https://twitter.com/hotdogsladies ) of Rec Diffs podcast * @Ohthatflo ( https://twitter.com/Ohthatflo ) of Material podcast * @BriannaWu ( https://twitter.com/BriannaWu ) of Rocket podcast * @film_girl ( https://twitter.com/film_girl ) of Rocket podcast * @doomquasar ( https://twitter.com/doomquasar ) of Rocket podcast * @cgpgrey ( https://twitter.com/cgpgrey ) of Cortex podcast * @danbenjamin ( https://twitter.com/danbenjamin ) of 5by5 * @MacSparky ( https://twitter.com/MacSparky ) of Mac Power Users podcast * @MKBHD ( https://twitter.com/MKBHD ) of YouTube * @jonlovett ( https://twitter.com/jonlovett ) of Pod Save America * @saradietschy ( https://twitter.com/saradietschy ) of YouTube Other Mentions * Field Notes ( https://fieldnotesbrand.com/ ) * 5by5 ( https://5by5.tv ) * Clarus the Dogcow ( https://512pixels.net/dogcow/ ) Intro/Outro Music: Silent Partner - Root ( https://instrumentalfx.co/silent-partner-root-no-copyright-music/ ) TTTI Podcast Artwork by Gustav Kjellin - gkdc.design ( https://www.gkdc.design/ ) - @gkdesignco ( https://www.instagram.com/gkdesignco/ ) Support Talking To The Internet by donating to their Tip Jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/talkingtotheinternet Check out our podcasting host, Pinecast ( https://pinecast.com ). Start your own podcast for free, no credit card required, forever. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code *r-6ad885* for 40% off for 4 months, and support Talking To The Internet.

On this week's podcast, why do we delude ourselves about what we can do each day?   Links: Email Me | Twitter | Facebook | Website   David Sparks' Article on the time delusion Carl Pullein Learning Centre Productivity Masterclass | Create Your Own Custom Workflow Carl's YouTube Channel The FREE Beginners Guide To Building Your Own COD System Carl Pullein Coaching Programmes The Working With… Podcast Previous episodes page   Script Episode 125 Hello and welcome to episode 125 of the Working With Podcast. A podcast to answer all your questions about productivity, time management, self-development and goal planning. My name is Carl Pullein and I am your host for this show. So how many tasks on average are you rescheduling each day? If you find yourself rescheduling tasks you are likely deluding yourself about how much you can do each day and it's a problem I find in many people's productivity systems and often causes people to falsely believe to-do lists and time management is not for them. The good news is once you accept reality, it is a problem you can fix very easily and that is what I will be talking about today. Now, before we get into this week's answer, I just want to give you a gentle reminder that many of my courses are on a very special offer this month and you have a chance to pick up four of my all-time best courses for just $40.00 (or for as little as $10.00 each) Time is running out as this very special offer will be ending soon so head over to my learning centre and get your bundle today. You will not be disappointed. All the details are in the show notes.  Okay, it's now time for me to hand you over to the mystery podcast voice for this week's question.  This week's question comes from Frederic. Frederic asks: Hi Carl, I have trouble completing all my tasks most days. I find I am having to reschedule sometimes half of the tasks I set for myself. Is this normal or am I doing something wrong?  WOW! Thank you, Frederic. I've been reading quite a few articles recently on this problem myself and it seems you are not alone. One article, in particular, caught my attention which I will link to in the show notes. David Sparks of the MacSparky podcast wrote about the delusion we have about how much we think we can do and the reality of what we actually can do each day. High expectations and hope rarely lead to a good outcome. What we need is to reduce those expectations and remove hope from the equation when we plan our day. The question is, how do we do that?  Firstly, understand you have a limited amount of time each day and with that time limit you also have limited resources of focus and concentration. What this means is as the day goes by your ability to focus and concentrate diminishes too. Your brain has a limited capacity to stay focused. And so while it might be easy to keep adding tasks to your daily to-do list, it becomes much harder to stay focused on completing those tasks as the day goes by. That's why most people hit a mid-afternoon slump.  However, there are more complications here too. Another factor is when are you at your most focused? Here we are all very different. Some people are at their most focused first thing in the morning—the early birds. Others find they can focus better in the evening—the night owls. And there are a rare few who find they focus most in the afternoons. Those people are so rare, though, we don't have a name for them.  So, one of the first things to do is to find out which type of person you are. Are you an early bird or a night owl? This is important because once you know your type you can start scheduling the work that needs your most focus at your best time.  Now this can be more difficult than you think. When I was in my twenties, I always felt I was a night owl. I hated mornings and really only came alive as the sun set. As I have matured I find I now focus best in the mornings - between 7 AM and 9 AM. Yet, I also find I can be very creative in the evenings between 11 PM and 1 AM. I experience a mental slump in the afternoons, so I schedule my exercise for 2 PM. Now I know many of you cannot do that as 2 PM is in the middle of your working day. That said, though, monitoring your days and learning when you feel at your most focused and when not is an essential first step to becoming more productive.  One of the least productive things you can do is to push through on a task that requires high levels of focus and concentration when you are in a mental slump. It would be far better to stop doing the task and spend some time working on your email replies and phone calls. Generally, your communications require less focus than pouring over a spreadsheet doing due diligence on a company's financial status.  According to Daniel Pink in his book, When, most people are at their most focused first thing in the morning. So for most of you the best time to schedule work that requires the most concentration is when you arrive at work. This is why you should not start your day with email. Email requires low levels of concentration so you would be better off working on your email replies towards the end of the morning—say 11:30 AM. This is one of the best times to hit reply too because as most people are heading off to lunch around that time you are less likely to get replies coming in as you reply. (That's a secret bonus tip for you—please keep it to yourself!) Okay, so now you have established your best times for focus and concentration, how do you manage the number of tasks you have for the day? Good question. Firstly, stop creating your daily to-do list based on hope and wishful thinking. Yes, we are all busy, yes we all have more stuff to do than available time in the day. But, we cannot change that. Instead, we need to get smart about how to manage our mental energy. If you focus better in the morning block time off to do your more difficult tasks in the morning. If you are in a leadership role, don't schedule meetings first thing in the morning—remember most people are at their best first thing in the morning—schedule meetings for late morning or better still early afternoon.  Next, reduce down the number of tasks you try to do each day. Now here's a trick I use. Rather look at a what I want to accomplish on a daily basis, I find looking at the week as a whole works better. Ask yourself what do you want to get accomplished this week? Now this focuses you more on outcomes than individual tasks and helps to reduce the number of tasks you have to do each week.  Let's say your goal for the week is to complete a proposal and get a commitment from a potential customer to purchase your service or product. Now, most companies follow SOPs (standards of procedure) and often these just add unnecessary tasks. Instead ask the question “what do I have to do this week to get this potential customer's business by close of business on Friday?” Asking this question may lead you to make a couple of calls and sending an email for two. This is far better than following some antiquated box-ticking system that was written five years ago that the potential customer or client does not care about.  For me, I could ask the question “what do I have to do to get this online course update finished by Sunday evening?” When I ask that question I may decide I need to cancel my teaching assignments on Thursday so I can spend all day in my studio recording the classes. Sometimes that's the only way you are going to get something done. As the saying goes: “if it's important enough you'll find way. If it's not, you'll find an excuse”. If I had a task such as “complete course update” I know that task is going to get rescheduled and I would likely miss completing the update. A task this big needs a lot of focussed time. It's far better to block a day off to get it done than to keep discovering I don't have time to do it today.  Now, I've heard the excuses about not being able to block a whole day off to complete a project or a task. And I've worked in enough industries to know this is partially true. That said, I also know that if a project needs to be completed by the end of the week or month the successful are willing to pull out all the stops and do whatever it takes to get that project completed. Like I said if it's important enough you will find a way. If it's not you will find an excuse. This one is your call. Talk to your boss, talk to your customers explain the situation. Do whatever it takes to carve out the time to complete the project.  You need to get intentional about what you want to accomplish each day. Sure, you're going to get a lot of stuff thrown at you, that's called life. As a productive person you need to learn to manage that stuff, prioritise the important and discard the not so important. It's hard, it takes practice, but it's worth it because of the productivity benefits you will get from it.  Finally, are you practising the 2+8 Prioritisation method? This works. It works because it focuses you on deciding what is important. You have to decide what ten tasks you are going to complete today (excluding your routines). Now, this is not a rough number. It's an intentionally precise number. You are only allowed a maximum of ten meaningful project or goal-orientated tasks per day.  I've seen people try to do more than ten tasks only to end up rescheduling many of those tasks. Remember, the purpose here is to not have to reschedule. To have enough meaningful tasks to comfortably complete them all and not have to reschedule. To have flexibility built into your day so you can deal with the inevitable unknowns that will come your way every day.  Think of it this way. If you have to reschedule a task - you failed. No excuse. You tried to do too much and you screwed up. Stop, review and ask why and then adjust accordingly. A lot of becoming better at managing your time and becoming more productive is really about making tiny adjustments until you discover your own sweet spot. The place where the number of tasks and type of work you do is manageable and has enough flexibility built in so you can deal with minor emergencies, interruptions and distractions as they come up. Most people never reach that sweet spot because they don't stop and figure out where their sweet spot is. Instead, I find most people are better at coming up with excuses about why they are different and why something that works for billions of other people couldn't work for them.  If you're having to reschedule tasks every day, then whatever you are trying to do is not working. If you find you need to reschedule once or twice a week, that's not really a problem. Sometimes the unknowns in the day will derail you. But, for the most part, you should be organising your day so you are not rescheduling much and that takes a lot of honesty and analysis. But that honesty and analysis will free you up to make better choices about how you manage your work each day.  Hopefully, that has helped you, Frederic. Thank you for your question and thank you to all of you for listening. It just remains for me now to wish you all a very very productive week.   

Our third MacVoices holiday Gift Guide show might be the most diverse yet, with selections from hardware to software, from services to training, with entertaining comments and banter to boot from the panel of Norbert Frassa, Frederick Van Johnson, Mike T. Rose, and host Chuck Joiner. Enjoy! [embed]http://traffic.libsyn.com/maclevelten/MV19245.mp3[/embed] This edition of MacVoices is supported by Linode, high performance cloud hosting and virtual servers for everyone. To take $20 off your first order, visit Linode.com/macvoices and use the offer code “macvoices2019”. Show Notes: Chuck Joiner is the producer and host of MacVoices. You can catch up with what he's doing on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the show: iTunes: - Audio in iTunes - Video in iTunes - HD Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:  - Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss  - Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss Donate to MacVoices via Paypal or become a MacVoices Patron. Guests: Norbert Frassa is a technology “man about town”. Follow him on Twitter and see what he’s up to. Frederick Van Johnson is a professional photographer host of This Week in Photo, and founder of the TWiP Network - one of the world’s most popular photography-related podcast media properties. Frederick also consults on marketing with a number of photography industry companies. Frederick began his career as a Combat Photojournalist in the United States Air Force, where he served for 8 years, and was decorated many times for photography. Frederick’s unit was among the first in the military to receive, and put into daily action early digital imaging hardware and software. As a result, he was awarded the Air Force Commendation medal for his key role in facilitating the US Air Force transition from film to digital. After the military, Frederick went on to study visual communication at the University of California in Santa Barbara, California. Frederick also studied at Brooks Institute in Santa Barbara, where he ultimately became Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Frederick was also a key member of team responsible for the development of iPhoto, Apple’s award-winning photo management application. Highly knowledgeable on multiple disciplines of photography, technology, and Internet trends – Frederick is able to discuss how emerging trends and technologies effect and benefit both amateur and professional photographers. Frederick is also author of the popular book “Global Mobile, Connecting without Wires, Walls, or Borders”. Today Frederick lives in Sacramento, California, and continues to practice photography whenever possible. He has also been known to sneak in playing a game or two on his PlayStation or flying his drone from time to time. You can follow him on Twitter.  Michael T. Rose began his Mac-centric career with a decade-plus stint in editorial technology at Entertainment Weekly & LIFE magazines, starting as a college intern right around when the Mac IIx was launched. After leaving the print publishing world, Mike worked as an IT lead and creative director for an NYC events and marketing agency. In 2013 he switched trains once again, and now enjoys his #dreamjob at Salesforce as a lead solution engineer. From 2006 to early 2015, Mike was a proud editor and contributor at The Unofficial Apple Web Log (TUAW), now folded into Engadget. Mike & his family live in Brooklyn, NY. You can find him on Twitter. Links: Norbert Frassa’s picks Satechi 75W Dual Type-C PD Travel Charger Adapter with 2 USB-C PD & 2 USB 3.0 iHome ISP6X Wi-FI Smart Plug Ten One Design T1-BLKH-109 Blockhead Side-Facing Plug 1Password Family Subscription Tug Plug   Frederick Van Johnson’s picks Spiffy Gear Lumee RGB Light Bracelet Spiffy Gear Lumee Bicolor Light Bracelet Amazon Echo Buds ColorWare Custom AirPods Dark Noise App Grammarly Blinkist   Mike T. Rose’s picks Satechi Aluminum Type-C Multimedia Adapter with 4K HDMI, Mini DP, USB-C PD, Gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0, Micro/SD Card Slots DJI Mavic Mini - Drone FlyCam Quadcopter with 2.7K Camera 3-Axis Gimbal Pluralsight LinkedIn Learning Macsparky Shortcuts Field Guide   Chuck Joiner’s picks Apple TV+ Apple HomePod Short Stop Mute Box EATOP USB Flash Drives 128GB, Thumb Drive USB 3.0 Flash Drive 128GB Compatible with Mobile Phone & Computers

We get back to Star Trek: The Next Generation in a discussion with David Sparks about Season 4, Episode 2, Family. Picard’s recovery from his Borg captivity, Worf’s visit with his parents, and Wesley’s encounter with the recording of his father make for an episode that can’t help but elicit an emotional reaction from the viewer. Visit TrekFavorites on the web, connect with us on Facebook and Twitter to share your thoughts on all things Star Trek, and subscribe to the audio podcast on iTunes or in your favorite podcast software. The video versions of this TrekFavorites can be viewed on the web site and on our YouTube channel. Guest: David Sparks  is a trial attorney who finally came out of the closet and admitted he was a nerd several years ago. David publishes MacSparky.com and is the co-host of the Mac Power Users podcast. He is also part of the Focused and Automators podcasts, and publishes his Field Guide series of training at Learn.MacSparky.com.

David Sparks and Clayton Morris join Zac to talk about Activity Sharing Competitions, exercising as a family, HIIT workouts, interesting ways to capture ideas on the Apple Watch, and much more. 9to5Mac Watch Time is a seasonal podcast series hosted by Zac Hall. In this series, we talk to real people about how the Apple Watch is affecting their lives. 9to5Mac Watch Time is available on Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and your favorite podcast player through RSS. Subscribe now to catch up with each episode and automatically hear new episodes as soon as they’re released every two weeks during season one. Links discussed in this episode: MacSparky.com Share your Activity and compete with friends with your Apple Watch Workout types on Apple Watch Use the Dock on your Apple Watch OrangeTheory Fitness Drafts OmniFocus JustPressRecord Shortcuts Field Guide Mac Power Users #447: Workflows with Zac Hall Learn.MacSparky.com How to stop Now Playing and audio apps from automatically opening on Apple Watch Geneva Moon is a standalone Apple Watch app with an astronomically accurate lunar complication Investing in Real Estate podcast Morris Invest YouTube Subscribe, Rate, and Review! Follow Zac: Instagram @apollozac Twitter @apollozac Follow David: Twitter @macsparky Follow Clayton: Twitter @ClaytonMorris Follow 9to5Mac: Instagram @9to5mac Twitter @9to5mac Facebook Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Overcast RSS Enjoy the podcast? Shop Apple at Amazon to support 9to5Mac Watch Time!

Mac geeks assemble!! On this week's episode of the 10 Minute Law Firm Podcast, Larry Port is joined by special guest David Sparks, attorney and author of the popular MACSPARKY blog. Listen as David, tech geek extraordinaire, talks about the benefits of automation in your law practice and introduces his latest learning course: Shortcuts Field Guide,… Read More »Ep 92: Shortcuts Field Guide with David Sparks The post Ep 92: Shortcuts Field Guide with David Sparks appeared first on Rocket Matter.

David Sparks tells us why his Shortcuts Field Guide, iOS13 Edition had to be completely re-written because of some of the new and powerful options Apple provided when iOS 13 hit the streets. David talks about some of the new capabilities including, new ability to work with NFC stickers, HomeKit integration, developer actions, and more. Shortcuts is like programming and not like programming. David tells you why you shouldn’t be intimidated, gives some examples of things you can accomplish with Shortcuts, and even offers a special discount code to save you some money. This edition of MacVoices is sponsored by Smile, the makers of PDFpen and PDFpenPro, PDFpen for iPad, PDFpen for iPhone, PDFpen Scan+, as well as TextExpander for Mac and TextExpander for iPhone and iPad, as well as the new TextExpander for Windows. Great software to help you get more done. Show Notes: Chuck Joiner is the producer and host of MacVoices. You can catch up with what he's doing on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the show: iTunes: - Audio in iTunes - Video in iTunes - HD Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: - Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss  - Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss Donate to MacVoices via Paypal or become a MacVoices Patron. Guests: David Sparks  is a trial attorney who finally came out of the closet and admitted he was a nerd several years ago. David publishes MacSparky.com and is the co-host of the Mac Power Users podcast. He is also part of the Focused and Automators podcasts, and publishes his Field Guide series of training at Learn.MacSparky.com. David also writes occasionally for Macworld and has authored a total of seven books including, Mac at Work  and iPad at Work,  60 Mac Tips, Volume 1 with Brett Terpstra, Paperless, Markdown with Eddie Smith, Email and Presentations.

David Sparks tells us why his Shortcuts Field Guide, iOS13 Edition had to be completely re-written because of some of the new and powerful options Apple provided when iOS 13 hit the streets. David talks about some of the new capabilities including, new ability to work with NFC stickers, HomeKit integration, developer actions, and more. Shortcuts is like programming and not like programming. David tells you why you shouldn’t be intimidated, gives some examples of things you can accomplish with Shortcuts, and even offers a special discount code to save you some money. This edition of MacVoices is sponsored by Smile, the makers of PDFpen and PDFpenPro, PDFpen for iPad, PDFpen for iPhone, PDFpen Scan+, as well as TextExpander for Mac and TextExpander for iPhone and iPad, as well as the new TextExpander for Windows. Great software to help you get more done. Show Notes: Chuck Joiner is the producer and host of MacVoices. You can catch up with what he's doing on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the show: iTunes: - Audio in iTunes - Video in iTunes - HD Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: - Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss  - Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss Donate to MacVoices via Paypal or become a MacVoices Patron. Guests: David Sparks  is a trial attorney who finally came out of the closet and admitted he was a nerd several years ago. David publishes MacSparky.com and is the co-host of the Mac Power Users podcast. He is also part of the Focused and Automators podcasts, and publishes his Field Guide series of training at Learn.MacSparky.com. David also writes occasionally for Macworld and has authored a total of seven books including, Mac at Work  and iPad at Work,  60 Mac Tips, Volume 1 with Brett Terpstra, Paperless, Markdown with Eddie Smith, Email and Presentations.

David Sparks tells us why his Shortcuts Field Guide, iOS13 Edition had to be completely re-written because of some of the new and powerful options Apple provided when iOS 13 hit the streets. David talks about some of the new capabilities including, new ability to work with NFC stickers, HomeKit integration, developer actions, and more. Shortcuts is like programming and not like programming. David tells you why you shouldn’t be intimidated, gives some examples of things you can accomplish with Shortcuts, and even offers a special discount code to save you some money. This edition of MacVoices is sponsored by Smile, the makers of PDFpen and PDFpenPro, PDFpen for iPad, PDFpen for iPhone, PDFpen Scan+, as well as TextExpander for Mac and TextExpander for iPhone and iPad, as well as the new TextExpander for Windows. Great software to help you get more done. Show Notes: Chuck Joiner is the producer and host of MacVoices. You can catch up with what he's doing on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the show: iTunes: - Audio in iTunes - Video in iTunes - HD Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher:  - Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss  - Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss Donate to MacVoices via Paypal or become a MacVoices Patron. Guests: David Sparks  is a trial attorney who finally came out of the closet and admitted he was a nerd several years ago. David publishes MacSparky.com and is the co-host of the Mac Power Users podcast. He is also part of the Focused and Automators podcasts, and publishes his Field Guide series of training at Learn.MacSparky.com. David also writes occasionally for Macworld and has authored a total of seven books including, Mac at Work  and iPad at Work,  60 Mac Tips, Volume 1 with Brett Terpstra, Paperless, Markdown with Eddie Smith, Email and Presentations.

On The Road to Macstock, David Sparks delivers a triple-duty interview as he explains how his session will help artists (and others) get organized and get distractions out of the way so they can get on with the business of creating art, and reveals that he has no idea what surprises the 500th episode of Mac Power Users will hold. Then, David takes things a step farther down the productivity path as we discuss his new MacSparky, and how it helps you learn and implement the power of the program in your own workflows. This edition of MacVoices is sponsored by Smile, the makers of PDFpen and PDFpenPro, PDFpen for iPad, PDFpen for iPhone, PDFpen Scan+, as well as TextExpander for Mac and TextExpander for iPhone and iPad, as well as the new TextExpander for Windows. Great software to help you get more done. Show Notes: Chuck Joiner is the producer and host of MacVoices. You can catch up with what he's doing on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the show: iTunes: - Audio in iTunes - Video in iTunes - HD Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: - Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss  - Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss Donate to MacVoices via Paypal or become a MacVoices Patron. Guests: David Sparks is an Orange County, California business attorney and a geek. David is also a podcaster (Mac Power Users), blogger, and author who writes about finding the best tools, hardware, and workflows for using Apple products to get work done. David also writes for Macworld magazine and speaks about technology. Find all his Field Guide series of training titles at Learn.MacSparky.com. Links: Macstock 2019: David’s Speaker code: macsparky Macstock 2019: Chuck's Speaker code: MacVoices Discount code for the Keyboard Maestro Field Guide: chuckisawesome

On The Road to Macstock, David Sparks delivers a triple-duty interview as he explains how his session will help artists (and others) get organized and get distractions out of the way so they can get on with the business of creating art, and reveals that he has no idea what surprises the 500th episode of Mac Power Users will hold. Then, David takes things a step farther down the productivity path as we discuss his new MacSparky, and how it helps you learn and implement the power of the program in your own workflows. This edition of MacVoices is sponsored by Smile, the makers of PDFpen and PDFpenPro, PDFpen for iPad, PDFpen for iPhone, PDFpen Scan+, as well as TextExpander for Mac and TextExpander for iPhone and iPad, as well as the new TextExpander for Windows. Great software to help you get more done. Show Notes: Chuck Joiner is the producer and host of MacVoices. You can catch up with what he's doing on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and LinkedIn. Subscribe to the show: iTunes: - Audio in iTunes - Video in iTunes - HD Video in iTunes Subscribe manually via iTunes or any podcatcher: - Audio: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesrss  - Video: http://www.macvoices.com/rss/macvoicesvideorss Donate to MacVoices via Paypal or become a MacVoices Patron. Guests: David Sparks is an Orange County, California business attorney and a geek. David is also a podcaster (Mac Power Users), blogger, and author who writes about finding the best tools, hardware, and workflows for using Apple products to get work done. David also writes for Macworld magazine and speaks about technology. Find all his Field Guide series of training titles at Learn.MacSparky.com. Links: Macstock 2019: David’s Speaker code: macsparky Macstock 2019: Chuck's Speaker code: MacVoices Discount code for the Keyboard Maestro Field Guide: chuckisawesome

David is someone who I have been listening to for a few years now. From his ‘Mac Power Users‘ podcast to ‘Focused’ (neè Free Agents), a podcast that listened to for most of last year before I left my full-time job. A really decent guy to talk to, and his passion for technology and how …

David is someone who I have been listening to for a few years now. From his ‘Mac Power Users‘ podcast to ‘Focused’ (neè Free Agents), a podcast that listened to for most of last year before I left my full-time job. A really decent guy to talk to, and his passion for technology and how …

Special Guest Chuck Joiner from Macvoices joins Dave. The new iPhone Xs Dave has the Xs Max and Chuck has the Xs we will both give our reviews so far. Apple Watch Series 4 review Dave has not purchased yet and Chuck does have one. Finally, we review many updates and new features with iOS 12.   Full show notes are at InTouchwithiOS.com Direct Link to Audio   News Stories we discussed SiriusXM to Acquire Pandora for $3.5 Billion - Macrumors Apple Finalizes Shazam Acquisition, App Will Soon Become Ad-Free - Macrumors iPhone XS Max Significantly Outselling iPhone XS, 256GB Most Popular, 512GB Subject to Serious Shortage - Macrumors Apple Watch Series 4 Fall Detection Feature is Off by Default Unless You're 65+ - Macrumors   Topics Our initial thoughts on the iPhone Xs and iPhone Xs Max. Chuck has the Xs and Dave has the Xs Max Apple Watch Series 4 - Chuck has one and Dave does not (for now) We discuss its features and if Chuck does like it. iOS 12 we review many of the new features and updates. Legacy Device Support Speed improvements Grouped stacked notifications Managing notifications from lock screen Screen time and digital health monitoring New animojis and memojis did you create your Memoji? Wink and tongue support in animojis New Shortcuts app (Workflow) Check out David Sparks new MacSparky course on Shortcuts app. https://learn.macsparky.com/p/siri Music you can search by lyrics now. FaceID greatly improved add additional ones and also able to swipe up to try it a 2nd time if it doesn’t work Meta: 035 iPhone Xs vs Xs Max reviews and iOS12 Tips with Special Guest Chuck Joiner was recorded September 25, 2018. Any pricing listed is in US dollars and what was available at the time of this post. “Please Listen Carefully” by Jahzzar is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. In Touch with iOS or “ITWIOS” is an independently produced podcast, publication and social identity and has not been authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Apple Inc. iOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S. All other Apple Inc. trademarks discussed are the property of Apple Inc. A full list of Apple trademarks is available here. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google Inc. We may use affiliate links for products in show notes. When appropriate, software, products, or services provided for review purposes will be disclosed. Unless otherwise noted, these products or services are not a sponsor. Your patronage helps to support our content production at no additional cost to you and does not alter our honest opinion of said product or service.        

We have “moonshot” power at our fingertips… but are we employing every nanometer of our gadgets?   A man of many hats and originally our guest on episode 26, business lawyer David Sparks, or “MacSparky,” writes all things Apple. Today's interview explores the tipping point in technology and how to harness our iPhones and other tools to save valuable time.   His newest field guide for iPhones exemplifies the gold standard in user guides, app recommendations, and overall authority on putting every bit and byte to use. With over two hours of video instruction and 44 chapters, the iPhone Field Guide undergoes regular updates and encapsulates a vast collection of rich media examples.   For non Apple users out there, David also offers “platform agnostic” field guides on going https://www.macsparky.com/paperless/ (paperless) and executing the most memorable https://www.macsparky.com/presentations/ (presentations).   Resources: Learn more at https://www.macsparky.com (MacSparky.com) Read the iPhone Field Guide by David Sparks Connect with David on Twitter   If you've enjoyed the podcast, please head to iTunes and leave a rating & review for the show! It only takes a moment, and really helps me to reach new listeners. You can also head to the website at TheLawEntrepreneur.com for more information on the podcast and my legal services.   --   Thank you to our sponsors! Daylite by Marketcircle – business productivity apps specifically for Apple products, with cloud syncing between your Macs, iPhones, & iPads Spotlight Branding – Web presence and branding for law firms - Get a FREE web assessment at spotlightbranding.com/tle The Law Entrepreneur is produced by Podcast Masters

David Sparks is a business attorney in Orange County, California, where heʼs been eating other lawyersʼ lunch for years using Apple Technologies. David is also an author of the MacSparky Field Guides, the editor of MacSparky.com, and the co-host of the popular Mac Power Users and Free Agents podcasts. David speaks and writes often about … Continue reading David Sparks

David Sparks, a.k.a. MacSparky, joins Brett for a Top-3-Picks-only episode. And of course to talk about the new book they co-wrote.

David Sparks, a.k.a. MacSparky, joins Brett for a Top-3-Picks-only episode. And of course to talk about the new book they co-wrote.

For those not familiar with the GTD methodology, it is a work-life management systems that, when done correctly, can help you manage your legal business and personal with less stress. In this report from On The Road, host Christopher Anderson talks to Ivan Hemmans and David Sparks, two legal professionals who have switched to the Getting Things Done (GTD) methodology and have seen positive results. Their discussion includes how to implement the system, key benefits, and resources that will help you get started. Ivan Hemmans is the Manager of Technology Development and Communications at O’Melveny & Myers LLP where he uses his extensive experience with information technology to help people find ways to solve everyday problems with the many available tools at their disposal. David Sparks has been a lawyer in Orange County, California, for 21 years and recently started a solo practice. He is also a technology expert who has a blog, a podcast, and often writes articles, including his MacSparky blog, about finding and using the best tools, hardware, and workflows for Apple devices.

You know you need great copy to sell your stuff, and you’re thinking of hiring a copywriter, but how can you make sure you don’t get ripped off? In this episode we’ll show you how to successfully navigate these waters and arrive safely on the shores of copywriting bliss. Click here to download or listen to this episode now. Spiritual Foundations Are facing challenges in your life right now? I have excellent news for you. No matter what is happening in your life, God is completely on your side! That, my friends, is called the Divine Advantage. In Romans 8:31 God says, “What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” No matter what life throws at you, take courage because you’re on the winning side! Tip Of The Week If you use a Mac user and you’re a productivity geek I highly recommend you get the most out of your Apple technology by checking out the Mac Power Users Podcast with David Sparks and Katie Floyd. In addition, David Sparks has his own blog called MacSparky.com where he has created free screencasts that show you how to get the most out of your productivity apps. He also has a series of Field Guides you can purchase on a variety of subjects that will make you want to hug your Mac. Prepare to feel the Apple love. Feature Segment: “10 Commandments of Hiring a Copywriter” Maybe you’ve tried to hire a copywriter in the past, but you had a bad experience with The 7 Deadly Copywriter Sins: The copy was just plain bad (too hypey, too weak, or “info-only”) The copy sounded like everyone else (the Sea of Sameness, Mired in the Muck of Mediocrity) Your copywriter took the money and ran Your copywriter never communicated with you…ever. The copy was late. They never asked for your feedback, so the final product was miles off target. They Found You, Fooled You, and Forgot You You’d like to hire a pro, but you can’t afford the fees of an “A-List Copywriter” (Ray’s current minimum is $250,000 up-front, plus a percentage of sales, for a “Private Client Launch Package”.) Yikes! You’re frustrated because it seems like the biggest “X-Factor” in your product launch is the copy, and you are afraid neither you nor your team is good enough to get it right. The 10 Commandments of Hiring a Copywriter i. Scope: Thy copywriter shalt help you determine exactly what type of copy you’ll need, and how much copy you’ll need to bring you the results you seek. ii. Voice: Thy copywriter shalt spend time with you and your material to learn your unique voice, and then infuse that voice into your copy. Your voice is what differentiates you from the crowd. iii. Deadline: Thy copywriter shalt deliver your copy on time…every time. If he doth not, woe unto them, and they shalt be cast into outer darkness. iv. Milestones: Thy copywriter shalt set up mile markers along the way during your project so that you can be consistently confident that your project is receiving the loving care it deserves. v. Communication: Thy copywriter shalt check in with you throughout the process to get your input and make absolutely certain that you’re thrilled with the hand-crafted copy thou receiveth. vi. Revisions: Thy copywriter shalt continue to work with you until thou art thrilled. vii. Proofreading: Thy copywriter shalt have thy copy proofread, and ensure the text is error-fee. viii. Review: Thy copywriter shalt put thy copy under the watchful eye of a mentor or other senior copywriter. ix. Results: Thy copywriter shalt have a track record of results. x. Followup: Thy copywriter shalt NOT just hand off your project and wish you luck. Thy copywriter shalt be there if things go sideways ready to swoop in and save the day! And…you guessed it…here are some snippets from our conversation: Oops I did it again (8:03) The Stepford Copywriter (8:40) Visit your money in Mexico (9:28) Can you hear me now? (9:44) Don’t be tardy for the party (10:50) Have we met? (11:46) Avoid the One Night Stand (12:11) Have map…will travel (13:31) Hire a chameleon (13:55) Better bring a flashlight (14:37) Give your copy a hug (15:15) Artisan copywriting (16:41) The value of sweat equity (17:46) That copy sure is pretty (18:58) Four eyes are better than two (19:57) Win…and win often (20:54) Copywriting Superhero! (21:25) Resources Mentioned In This Episode MacSparky Blog MacSparky Field Guides Mac Power Users Podcast How To Help Subscribe to the show through iTunes and give us a rating and review. Make sure you put your real name and website in the text of the review itself. We will mention you on this show. PLEASE USE THE APPLE PODCAST APP! Get The Transcript Right-Click and “Save As” to Get the PDF Transcript.

Hera takes center spotlight in the Ryloth based "Hera's Heroes". Reuniting with her father Cham Syndulla, Hera goes on a personal mission to her homeworld to take back what belongs to her family. Joining us for this week's Roundtable is tech expert/author David Sparks from MacSparky.com. 

In this episode of the Productivity Podcast, I talk to David Sparks from MacSparky.com and co-host of the Mac Power Users Podcast. Being a fan of the Mac Power Users, I've learned a lot from David and his co-host Katie Floyd all about how to be more productive and efficient on the Mac. He's introduced me to some great new tools and changed the way I use my Mac (for the better). When he's not talking about Mac's or writing about technology, David is a self-employed Business Attorney and needless to say, he's a very productive guy. 1. For those who don't know, who is David Sparks and what do you do? (4.00) 2. How do you balance all the different projects in your life? You're an Attorney, blogger, podcaster and father. How do you fit it all in? (4.43) 3. For people getting started with the Mac, what are the first few things you would have people do to use their Mac more effectively? (6.40) 4. And what about more advanced users? What advice would you give to someone who's already fairly competent and looking to get more out of their Mac? (16.40) 5. If you had to delete all third-party apps but one (so you just get the default suite from Apple), which one app would you choose to keep? (28.00) 6. What are you most excited about the latest updates from Apple? (28.43) Show notes: PaulMinors.com/50 If you want to be more productive, start my email course, the 7-Day Productivity Plan. Receive actionable, easy to follow advice via one email a day for 7 days: PaulMinors.com/7days If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the podcast. I'd also love it if you could leave me a review. Doing this will help more people discover the show so they to can get more done and get more out of life. Intro/Outro Music: "Synthia" by Scott & Brendo --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/paulminors/message

- Omnifocus End-to-End encryption:https://www.omnigroup.com/blog/omnifocus-now-supports-end-to-end-encryption- Videotutorial de MacSparky:http://macsparky.com/omnifocus

- Omnifocus End-to-End encryption:https://www.omnigroup.com/blog/omnifocus-now-supports-end-to-end-encryption- Videotutorial de MacSparky:http://macsparky.com/omnifocus

If you consider yourself to be a part of the Apple community, you’ve probably heard of David Sparks through his work on the Relay.fm podcast Mac Power Users with Katie Floyd. Since 2009 and over the course of more than 300 episodes, David and Katie have shared tips on getting the most out of Apple […]

David Sparks, long time attorney and long-time geek left the practice he had been with for decades to branch out on his own. Using his geek skills to build the foundation for his nascent practice's infrastructure, David is able to better service his clients and carve out that valuable time to spend with family and on other projects. "I knew I wanted to go out on my own, but I was terrified of admitting to myself that I wanted to do it." Listen to David talk small business legal startup tactics with Dave and Shannon on today's Small Business Show Visit David at MacSparky.com (for the geek stuff) and SparksEsq.com (for the law stuff).

In 1986 David Sparks of Sparks Law and MacSparky was an engineering student that joined his collegiate debate team. David had tremendous success as a debater and before long he was hooked. David attended Pepperdine Law School as a Dean's Merit Scholar; he made the Dean's List and, after an externship with a Federal District Judge, graduated in 1993 with the sole purpose of getting in a courtroom just like Atticus Finch. David joined a law firm full of remarkable lawyers where he was promised me he'd get time in a courtroom. They made good on that promise, letting David go to trial (and win) his first case just a few months after swearing into the bar.

The tag line in my logo says “Live with Joy, Lead with Passion, and Prosper with Purpose”. Occasionally someone asks me, “So how to do you that?” That's what today's episode is all about: answering that question. Announcements I am getting excited about the upcoming Platform Conference in Colorado Springs, starting November 9th. There are still a few seats available, and you can still save $100 when you click here and add the special code RAY to your order. Plus, Cliff Ravenscraft and I are hosting a special one-day event the day after the Platform Conference. This is a “Day With Cliff and Ray”, and if you're going to be in Colorado Springs for the Platform Conference, you should definitely consider joining us for this event. Here is what we will be doing at this event: The Deeper Connection Session: During this session, every person will be given a few moments to introduce themselves. These introductions will be done in a fun and interesting way that will certainly help you get to know each of the other folks in the group on a much deeper level. The Next Level Resources Session: During this session, Cliff and Ray will go back and forth, in rapid fire succession, as they share their most valuable tips, tools and other resources that have helped them to achieve what is most important to them. There is no doubt that you will walk away with many valuable resources to take your own platform to the next level. The Most Valuable Investment Session: During this session, each member of the group will be given a few moments to share what they feel has been the most beneficial investment that they have made in taking their own platform to the next level. Hearing “what has worked” for others may be just the source of inspiration that you need to get a glimpse at new possibilities. AMA with Cliff & Ray Session: During this “Ask Me Anything” session, you will have the opportunity to ask Cliff or Ray ANYTHING you want. Both Cliff and Ray are very willing to share anything and everything from their own experiences that may be of help to you. So just think about it. If you could ask anything of Cliff or Ray, what would it be? Next, write that question down and bring it to this session. Tip of the Week: I absolutely love the Field Guides at MacSparky, which is the blog of David Sparks. Currently I'm reading his guide on Presentations, as I'm preparing for my presentation at the Platform Conference. His Field Guides are thorough, media-rich, and darn near flawless. I also recommend the podcast he does with Katie Floyd, which is called Mac Power Users. Bonus Tip: Dan Franks and Jared Easley are doing the Business Podcaster Summit in January. This is a great, no-travel-required event you should consider putting on your calendar. Spiritual Foundations: Instead of looking for something to do in God’s word, look for something to believe. Here are 5 things to believe that will change your life. Speak them and hear them. My prayers are powerful and effective. (James 5:16) I hear God's voice. (John 10:27) Today is the best day yet. (2 Corinthians 3:18, Isaiah 9:6) Everywhere I go people encounter Jesus. (2 Corinthians 2:14) God is madly in love with me. (Psalm 33:18,  John 3:16-17) Thanks to Levi Hug from Bethel Church in Redding, California for these points. Feature Presentation: How to Live with Joy, Lead with Passion, and Prosper with Purpose So how does one actually do what I propose in my tagline? How you do “live with joy, lead with passion, and prosper with purpose?” While I could write a book about this (and I am in fact doing just that), I want to share a shorter answer. This answer is simple, but high-leverage. It's really just 3 steps: Decide Connect Pursue Decide to live with joy. Happiness is a decision first. Be careful little brain, what you think. Emotion follows motion. The bet cure for depression is usually a good run. Protect the asset. Get proper food, exercise, and rest. Connect your deepest passion to what you do every day. What do you do when you are free to do what you want? What did you dream about as a child? What do you do that makes you forget the clock? Pursue your life's purpose. Know why you are here on earth. Let purpose drive your life. Make sure you stay “on purpose”. Next Week:  Set Yourself Up For a Lean, Mean, 2015. Get The Transcript Click here to get the transcript. Transcripts provided by SuccessTranscripts – a great solution if you need your podcast, sermon, speech, or other audio transcribed. Question: How do you manage to live with joy, lead with passion, and prosper with purpose? Click here to leave your comments.

Mike and guest David Sparks (better known as MacSparky) talk about task management, habit tracking, and plenty of other tactical stuff - all in a shade under 30 minutes! Relevant Links http://www.macpowerusers.com/2014/08/24/210-task-management/ (Mac Power Users #210: Task Management) https://www.omnigroup.com/video/omnifocus-setup-panel-and-qa (OmniFocus Setup Panel and Q&A) https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/napkin-concise-image-annotation/id581789185?mt=12&uo=4&at=10l66s (Napkin: Concise Visual Communication) http://lift.com/ (Lift) https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/day-one/id422304217?mt=12&uo=4&at=10l66s (Day One) http://macpsarky.com/ (MacSparky) http://twitter.com/macsparky/ (@macsparky on Twitter) Want to send Mike an app, book, or something similar to discuss on the show? Email him at podcast@productivityist.com and he'll give it a look. Want to listen on Stitcher? http://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=53149&refid=stpr (Click here.) Support The Productivityist Podcast by becoming a patron! http://www.patreon.com/Productivityist (Click here) to visit The Productivityist Podcast's Patreon page and see what perks await those who pitch in a buck or more.

David and Katie talk about the subject of David's latest books, Presentations and how you can create powerful and compelling presentations yourself. Thanks to MPU listener Jigar Talati for assistance with the shownotes this week!

Has email taken over your life? If you’re like me, is certainly can often. Today, I welcome David Sparks of MacSparky.com to teach us how to get better control of this communication medium. Guest: David Sparks of MacSparky.com Author of Email* and Paperless* Co-Host of the Mac Power Users podcast David and I speak about his new book Email and how we can use more effective workflows and planning to take control of email. You'll find his perspective helpful for considering actions you can take with your email. Community Feedback CoachingforLeaders.com/feedback USA: (949) 38-LEARN Twitter: #CFLshow David's book Email* David's book Paperless* Coaching for Leaders episode #120 is an all request show! Record your question at this link. Almost 500 people are participating in my coaching plan on the Lift app on how to Become A More Respected Manager. Check it out at coachingforleaders.com/liftplan Thank you to Halina Kavalenka, Paul Gallo, Vitaly Rubanenko, Jenny Jones, Chelle Ziegenfuss, Kian Ruddock, Debra Barrett, Alvin Tjitrowirjo, Jon Watts, Kyle Crecelius, Steve Nunez, Achintha Rodrigo, Jason Collins, Neal Quon, and Scott Phillips who’ve subscribed to my weekly update this past week. Thank you to Bhaskar Nellipudi for your very kind written review on Stitcher. If this show has been valuable to you as well, please leave a written review on iTunes or Stitcher by visiting coachingforleaders.com/itunes or coachingforleaders.com/stitcher

Has email taken over your life? If you’re like me, is certainly can often. Today, I welcome David Sparks of MacSparky.com to teach us how to get better control of this communication medium. Guest: David Sparks of MacSparky.com Author of Email* and Paperless* Co-Host of the Mac Power Users podcast David and I speak about his new book Email and how we can use more effective workflows and planning to take control of email. You'll find his perspective helpful for considering actions you can take with your email. Community Feedback CoachingforLeaders.com/feedback USA: (949) 38-LEARN Twitter: #CFLshow David's book Email* David's book Paperless* Coaching for Leaders episode #120 is an all request show! Record your question at this link. Almost 500 people are participating in my coaching plan on the Lift app on how to Become A More Respected Manager. Check it out at coachingforleaders.com/liftplan Thank you to Halina Kavalenka, Paul Gallo, Vitaly Rubanenko, Jenny Jones, Chelle Ziegenfuss, Kian Ruddock, Debra Barrett, Alvin Tjitrowirjo, Jon Watts, Kyle Crecelius, Steve Nunez, Achintha Rodrigo, Jason Collins, Neal Quon, and Scott Phillips who’ve subscribed to my weekly update this past week. Thank you to Bhaskar Nellipudi for your very kind written review on Stitcher. If this show has been valuable to you as well, please leave a written review on iTunes or Stitcher by visiting coachingforleaders.com/itunes or coachingforleaders.com/stitcher

Ray Edwards is an author, speaker, copywriter, and fellow-podcaster on his successful podcast ‘The Ray Edwards Show’. Ray has many creative insights in entrepreneurship and productivity. Ray is also  the author of the #1 Amazon Bestseller Writing Riches. Please make sure to visit this episodes sponsor captureapps.com/todo for a great way to record audio notes with markers and text! Mentioned in this episode: OmniFocus, GTD, and You – Implementing the Getting Things Done® Trip it Expensify Scan Snap Paperless David Sparks – MacSparky.com Mac Power Users Podcast Tweetable quotes (click to tweet): Success isn't a destination. It’s making progress towards a goal that’s worthy of your calling in life. - @RayEdwardsClick To Tweet My goal for productivity is to be more effective at the important things in life. - @RayEdwardsClick To Tweet We’re capable of doing things that would astound ourselves, if we just applied ourselves with focus. - @RayEdwardsClick To Tweet Don’t miss Ray’s interview of me on his show! Write a review in iTunes Please connect with me Subscribe, rate, and review in iTunes Follow @ErikJFisher Check out more Noodle.mx Network showsThe Audacity to Podcast: "How-to" podcast about podcastingBeyond the To-Do List: Personal and professional productivityThe Productive Woman: Productivity for busy womenONCE: Once Upon a Time podcastWelcome to Level Seven: Agents of SHIELD and Marvel’s cinematic universe podcastAre You Just Watching?: Movie reviews with Christian critical thinkingthe Ramen Noodle: Family-friendly clean comedy

David Sparks (a.k.a. MacSparky) joins Brett to discuss prioritizing time, reducing day job stress, Markdown, and why the world needs regular expressions. A battle to the death ensues in the top 3 picks. Show links MacSparky Paperless — MacSparky 60 Mountain Lion Tips by David Sparks and Brett Terpstra 5by5 | Mac Power Users Mac App Store - PopClip PopClip Extensions Mac App Store - MyNest Mac App Store - DragonDrop Mac App Store - Yoink Letterpress Wreck-It Ralph

This week’s episode of the Work Awesome podcast features David Sparks. David hosts the popular Mac Power Users podcast, maintains a regular posting schedule on his MacSparky website and finds time to work as a full time lawyer. How does he do it? You’ll have to listen to find out… Show Notes David reveals how […]