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Ever feel like your problems are too big, too vague, too tangled to tackle? Dr. Mark L. Teague calls it “the blob”—that overwhelming mass of modern challenges we all face. In this powerful episode of Productivity Smarts, host Gerald J. Leonard sits down with Dr. Teague, economist, former finance executive, and author of A Working Man's Guide, to reveal a game-changing approach: frame the problem before you fight it. Dr. Teague shares the strategy that helped him go from farmhand to PhD and Wall Street leadership: simplify the chaos, break it into components, and work against a frame, not a feeling. We also take a look at his Impact Index—a sharp diagnostic tool to evaluate whether someone's ambition and capability align—and a deep observation at why building a life of abundant purpose is the ultimate productivity advantage. Learn how principled thinking, rooted in traditional values, leads not just to success—but to purpose. Let's dive in. What We Discuss [00:00] Introducing Dr. Mark L. Teague, PhD [04:01] The 3 core principles that shaped Dr. Teague [05:31] Why accepting life's problems is the first step to real productivity [07:44] The power of the Scientific Method: Turning blobs into frames [11:06] Samuel Morse and the power of reframing problems [13:44] Building resilience in the age of AI, economic shifts, and overwhelm [17:07] The Impact Index: How ambition and competence drive real outcomes [23:22] Abundant purpose: Why fulfillment beats wealth every time [28:02] From managing money to managing meaning: Lessons for entrepreneurs and tradespeople [32:52] How values-driven leadership builds lasting business and family success [36:22] Holding fast to your North Star: The conversation that matters most [39:23] Where to find Dr. Teague and his book Notable Quotes [04:20] “Work hard, be honest, and be respectful. Those three things were expected—and you didn't deviate.” — Dr. Teague [07:44] “Don't work against the blob. Frame the problem, then work the frame.” — Dr. Teague [10:22] “Simplify. That's the secret to all stress management.” — Dr. Teague [17:07] “Capability without ambition makes you dead weight. Ambition without capability makes you dangerous.” — Dr. Teague [25:48] “Build your life around the intangibles—and use those same principles to pursue the tangible.” — Dr. Teague [35:55] “If you put business before family, you're talking to a fool.” — Dr. Teague Our Guest Dr. Mark L. Teague is a former finance executive, PhD economist, entrepreneur, and author of A Working Man's Guide. With deep roots in traditional values and decades of high-stakes leadership, Dr. Teague brings a fresh, practical perspective to productivity rooted in principle. His book delivers actionable tools and thought-provoking insights for anyone striving to lead a purpose-driven life and career. Resources Dr. Mark L. Teague, PhD Website - https://aworkingmansguide.com/ Facebook - https://m.facebook.com/DrMarkLTeague/ Book: A Working Man's Guide - https://www.amazon.com/Working-Mans-Guide-Strong-Values/dp/B0D9HYRPSP Productivity Smarts Podcast Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com Gerald J. Leonard Website - geraldjleonard.com Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds
In this #podcast episode I interview Mark Teague. I ask Mark about his book “A Working Man's Guide” and how values affect legacy. I also ask Mark about how we can stay true to our personal values in business and in life. Mark also talks with me about how we confirm information and challenge our biases. Show Notes and Resources.
Dr. Mark L. Teague is a seasoned executive, entrepreneur, and author whose remarkable journey from farmhand to finance executive has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge and unique insights into the challenges facing the American working class. With a PhD in Agricultural Economics from Oklahoma State University and an impressive track record in the banking and finance industry, Dr. Teague has established himself as an authority on navigating the modern business landscape while staying true to traditional values. Driven by a deep-rooted belief in the power of principled living and the importance of preserving the American working class, Dr. Teague's mission is to empower working men with the tools and wisdom they need to thrive in their careers, relationships, and personal lives. He champions the working class, advocating for personal responsibility, resilience, and the pursuit of meaningful goals. His professional journey and dedication to traditional values in a modern world position him as a trusted guide for those striving to build a legacy of significance. Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Teague has held leadership positions at major financial institutions such as Toyota Financial Services, Metris Companies, and Sears Credit. His innovative strategies and decision science applications have led to significant business successes, including over $300 million in shareholder value, $3.5 billion in accounts receivables growth, and $850 million in credit loss reductions. Dr. Teague's exceptional problem-solving skills and creativity have earned him numerous accolades, including the Business Partner of the Year Award from Sears Credit. He holds a B.S. from West Texas A&M University and a PhD from Oklahoma State University, both achieved with Summa Cum Laude honors. He has also contributed to several peer-reviewed articles in professional academic journals. When he's not writing, reading, or advising, Dr. Teague enjoys spending time with his wife, Melissa, their four children, and nine grandchildren on their Texas ranch. An avid outdoorsman, he finds joy in alpine skiing, hiking, camping, and exploring nature with his family. Dr. Teague is also passionate about the shooting sports and cherishes the moments he spends teaching his grandchildren to ski and appreciate the great outdoors. For insights on living a life of significance and creating a meaningful legacy, visit Dr. Teague's website at www.aworkingmansguide.com.
A man who enters the world will encounter problems. This is unavoidable. As soon as one is solved, another rises up. Over time this can be extremely frustrating. It's tempting to just start blaming - other people, events, and even God. When a man turns to blame and plays a victim, his life only gets worse. If he continues, he ends up with a life not worth living. Don't believe the lies of the world. Join me in this episode as Dr. Mark Teague and I dive into a discussion of how to respond to life's problems. Do you accept that there are problems and you need to work to solve them, or do you hide? How do you balance responsibility with humility as a Christian? This episode is an invitation to get working and take responsibility! You can find Mark's book at his website or anywhere books are sold! http://www.aworkingmansguide.com I also invite you to check out my free Manly Strengths Assessment at https://catholiclifecoachformen.com/manly-strengths-assessment-signup/
In this episode we are introduced to a picture book series called "How Do Dinosaurs" by Jane Yolen and illustrated by Mark Teague. Each story begins with an example of silly, not-so-perfect dinosaur behaviour, followed by the polite ways dinosaurs (and kids) *should* act — whether it's at school, bedtime or dinner. This series will help your child become a confident reader, all while teaching them little life lessons. Find the How Do Dinosaurs series in the FVRL collection: https://fvrl.bibliocommons.com/v2/search?query=%22how%20do%20dinosaurs%22%20&searchType=smart&page=1
Do dinosaurs stomp and complain when they have to go to bed?
We review the book "We Are Going to Be Pals!" Mark Teague.Support the show
Illustrated in full color. In a wildly funny twist on the annual "How I spent my summer vacation" school-essay ritual, Mark Teague shakes up a dull classroom with a young student's imaginative account of his adventures in the Wild West. Most kids go to camp, or Grandma's house, or maybe they're stuck at home all summer. Not Wallace Bleff. He was supposed to visit his Aunt Fern. Instead, Wallace insists, he was carried off by cowboys and taught the ways of the West--from riding buckin' broncos to roping cattle. Lucky for Aunt Fern, he showed up at her house just in time to divert a stampede from her barbecue party! Perfect for back-to-school read-alouds, here's a western fantasy with sparkling illustrations and enough action to knock kids' boots off! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/avant-garde-books/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/avant-garde-books/support
Today I read, “How Do Dinosaurs Say Good Night?” by Jane Yolen & Mark Teague! I hope you enjoy it! If YOU would like to choose the next book to be read on the Gumdrop Readers Podcast then you can send me an email including your name, age, and book request! Ask an adult to help you send it over to; gumdropreaders@gmail.com. If you would like to support the podcast, you can donate at, https://anchor.fm/trinity-love-rocho/support Also, don't forget to follow Gumdrop Readers on instagram! gumdrop_readers Thanks for listening! --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/trinity-love-rocho/support
Like playing with your toys but cleaning up is not as fun? Well let's see how much fun it can be with the help of our dinosaur friends! Come along for some BIG fun as your favorite dinosaurs learn to pick up and put away their toys. How do dinosaurs clean their rooms? With trash cans and dusters and brooms! Thank you for listening to this audiobook story here on The Read Aloud Library audiobooks. Please follow us on Instagram (@thereadaloudlibrary) and YouTube (The Read Aloud Library) for more interactive read-aloud stories!
Want to run the Single Wing? ➡ https://bit.ly/singlewing ----- The Single Wing Offense is a Run First Offense that pounds the football and forces defenses to quit. But how do you install and run the Single Wing? Well that's what we are going to be talking about in today's Talking Football Showcast. We have Coach Mark Teague on and we are talking all things Single Wing! Follow Coach Mark Teague: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mark.teague.754 Twitter - https://twitter.com/TheCoachTeague ----- Get my Simplifying Air Raid eBook ➡ https://footballsecrets.thrivecart.com/simplified-ebook-bundle/ ----- FOLLOW ME ON: YouYube ➡➡ https://www.youtube.com/c/CoachMcKie Twitter ➡➡ https://twitter.com/CoachMckieJr Instagram ➡➡ https://www.instagram.com/rsmckiejr/ ----- Join my FB Group ➡➡ https://www.facebook.com/groups/footballcoachingsecrets/
Stories for Kids | Fantastic Story Books for Children Read Aloud
'Miss La Rue, Tales from Obedience School' by Mark Teague is a wonderful story for kids about a naughty dog who gets sent to obedience school. During his time in obedience school he writes a collection of hilarious letters to his owner Miss La Rue.
Do dinosaurs whine when it's time to say the prayers? Do they steal all the gelt and throw it down the stairs?... *unofficial reading Theme song: Fantastic World by WinnieTheMoog Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/7042-fantastic-world License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Book by Jane Yolen and Mark Teague. Today my reading helper was Josephine. We hope you enjoyed and we will be adding more titles soon to the read along library.
Cedar School Reading Specialist, Ellen Burns, reads How Do Dinosaurs Learn to Read? Written by Jane Yolen and illustrated by Mark Teague.
"One Halloween Night" is written and illustrated by Mark Teague.
Mark Teague appears at the 2013 Library of Congress National Book Festival. Speaker Biography: Mark Teague's highly original stories have been published internationally to great acclaim for nearly two decades. His numerous awards and honors include both the Book Sense Book of the Year Award and the Christopher Medal, and his titles regularly appear on the best-seller lists of The New York Times and Publishers Weekly. His series about Mrs. LaRue is widely popular. Another series, "How Do Dinosaurs ...," has sold more than 14 million copies. Teague's latest in the series is "How Do Dinosaurs Say I'm Mad?" For captions, transcript, and more information visit http://www.loc.gov/today/cyberlc/feature_wdesc.php?rec=6091