Podcasts about Cal Newport

What marketing strategies are actually working in 2025? Karla Singson shares standout tactics from a DC Mexico meetup she hosted, where 6- and 7-figure founders revealed how they're landing clients organically through Facebook groups, trade show podcast hacks, and thoughtful LinkedIn comments (no ad spend required). We also dive into Karla's own playbook: how she's built multiple businesses around authenticity, reputation, and smart delegation. She shares tips for handling sales calls, choosing offers that sell themselves, and why relationships (not reach) are her #1 growth lever. LINKS: Karla's Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/karla.singson) Karla's Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/karlastefan/) Karla's Business (https://proximityoutsourcing.com/) Dennis Yu's “Dollar a Day” Strategy (https://dennisyu.com/category/dollar-a-day/) Connect with generous global entrepreneurs (https://dynamitecircle.com/) Founders getting together in Bangkok this October for DCBKK 2025 (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GFaF1Vj7I7H0f5BmGYuyoaGuEdMCo-3CkBnVDuaSwrI/edit?usp=sharing) Read Dan's book “Before the Exit” (https://www.amazon.com/Before-Exit-Thought-Experiments-Entrepreneurs-ebook/dp/B07BN2KD1J) Share your story/sponsor the pod (https://forms.gle/gKZFuwReHSvg8LD48) CHAPTERS: (00:00:13) Intro: Affordable Marketing for Scrappy Founders (00:01:29) Karla's Business Portfolio: From Flowers to Facebook Funnels (00:05:00) Why Founders Struggle to Delegate (00:10:17) 3 Low-Cost, High-Impact Client Acquisition Channels (00:12:59) Organic Facebook Marketing Still Works (Here's Why) (00:15:34) The 400% Revenue Trade Show Hack (00:18:29) How to Capture Leads by Commenting on LinkedIn (00:21:17) Why Most Founders Are Hesitant to Run Ads (00:22:50) The Rise of Hyper-Authenticity (00:26:30) Why In-Person Still Matters (But Not for the Reason You Think) (00:27:25) The '10 Industry Friends' Strategy for Rapid Growth (00:34:41) Why Karla Keeps a Business Portfolio (Not Just One Focus) (00:36:30) The “Duh” Test for Business Ideas (00:38:46) Sales Calls: What Actually Works in 2025 (00:38:54) Building Rapport That Converts (No Cringe Small Talk) (00:41:23) Refunds, Guarantees, and the Power of Reputation (00:42:11) Lessons from a Business Partnership Gone Wrong (00:45:31) Why Golf Is the Best Business School (00:48:05) Playa del Carmen as a Business Base: Pros and Cons (00:52:37) Karla's Love Letter to DCBKK CONNECT: Dan@tropicalmba.com Ian@tropicalmba.com Past guests on TMBA include Cal Newport, David Heinemeier Hannson, Seth Godin, Ricardo Semler, Noah Kagan, Rob Walling, Jay Clouse, Einar Vollset, Sam Dogan, Gino Wickam, James Clear, Jodie Cook, Mark Webster, Steph Smith, Taylor Pearson, Justin Tan, Matt Gartland, Ayman Al-Abdullah, Lucy Bella. PLAYLIST: Marketing to High-Dollar Clients (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/marketing-to-high-dollar-clients) $1.5 Million from LinkedIn: Strategies for Building Influence and Consistent Revenue (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/million-from-linkedin) Niche B2B Content = Big Revenue on YouTube (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/b2b-content-youtube) 50/50 Partnerships: Saying the Quiet Part Out Loud (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/50-50-partnerships)

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1726: Cal Newport breaks down what makes an idea or achievement truly stand out, arguing that remarkability stems from a deliberate investment in skill, not just creativity or passion. By understanding how "remarkability" works, listeners gain a clearer path to making their own work and accomplishments stand out in meaningful ways. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2011/09/22/the-calculus-of-remarkability/ Quotes to ponder: "Remarkability, in other words, is not an accident. It's something you can engineer." "People don't talk about something because it's good; they talk about it because it's interesting." "A good rule of thumb is to focus your energy on becoming so good they can't ignore you." Episode references: So Good They Can't Ignore You: https://www.amazon.com/Good-They-Cant-Ignore-You/dp/1455509124 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3640: Cal Newport challenges the popular “write every day” mantra by revealing how it can backfire for ambitious, cognitively demanding projects. Instead, he advocates for a more strategic approach, optimizing your schedule to make space for deep work while managing motivational psychology with intentionality and clarity. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2013/01/13/write-every-day-is-bad-advice-hacking-the-psychology-of-big-projects/ Quotes to ponder: "Big projects are psychologically daunting. We fear them." "Working consistently, but not necessarily every day, ensures you preserve the psychological connection to the project." "When you do work, work deeply. Depth generates value faster than shallow repetition." Episode references: The War of Art: https://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Through-Creative-Battles/dp/1936891026 Deep Work: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Work-Focused-Success-Distracted/dp/1455586692 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3640: Cal Newport challenges the popular “write every day” mantra by revealing how it can backfire for ambitious, cognitively demanding projects. Instead, he advocates for a more strategic approach, optimizing your schedule to make space for deep work while managing motivational psychology with intentionality and clarity. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2013/01/13/write-every-day-is-bad-advice-hacking-the-psychology-of-big-projects/ Quotes to ponder: "Big projects are psychologically daunting. We fear them." "Working consistently, but not necessarily every day, ensures you preserve the psychological connection to the project." "When you do work, work deeply. Depth generates value faster than shallow repetition." Episode references: The War of Art: https://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Through-Creative-Battles/dp/1936891026 Deep Work: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Work-Focused-Success-Distracted/dp/1455586692 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3640: Cal Newport challenges the popular “write every day” mantra by revealing how it can backfire for ambitious, cognitively demanding projects. Instead, he advocates for a more strategic approach, optimizing your schedule to make space for deep work while managing motivational psychology with intentionality and clarity. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2013/01/13/write-every-day-is-bad-advice-hacking-the-psychology-of-big-projects/ Quotes to ponder: "Big projects are psychologically daunting. We fear them." "Working consistently, but not necessarily every day, ensures you preserve the psychological connection to the project." "When you do work, work deeply. Depth generates value faster than shallow repetition." Episode references: The War of Art: https://www.amazon.com/War-Art-Through-Creative-Battles/dp/1936891026 Deep Work: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Work-Focused-Success-Distracted/dp/1455586692 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From hating life on a Sydney construction site to building a $57K/month agency from Bali, Tom Richards—founder of PlumbElec Marketing—has lived the remote founder arc. In this episode, he shares how niching into plumbing and electrical businesses helped him scale fast, why Google Maps still dominates local SEO, and how he balances agency life with lifestyle design. You'll hear Tom's take on ChatGPT use cases, the best tools for founder efficiency, and whether he's ready to scale or keep things lean and profitable. Plus, Dan breaks down what might be the most reliable location-independent income roadmap in 2025. LINKS: Connect with Tom (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-richards-au/) Daily Huddle template (http://bit.ly/4ea6MOf) The 4-Hour Work Week by Tim Ferriss (https://fourhourworkweek.com/) Share your story/sponsor the pod (https://forms.gle/gKZFuwReHSvg8LD48) 22 free resources for founders (https://tropicalmba.com/resources) Connect with 1,000+ generous global entrepreneurs (https://dynamitecircle.com/) Read Dan's book “Before the Exit” (https://www.amazon.com/Before-Exit-Thought-Experiments-Entrepreneurs-ebook/dp/B07BN2KD1J) CHAPTERS: (00:02:18) From Plumber to Agency Founder (00:04:07) How Tom Built His First Client Base (00:04:58) $57K MRR and the Current Team (00:07:23) Why Tradespeople Are the Best Clients (00:09:51) Transitioning from Daily Huddles to Weekly Calls (00:12:14) The Real Numbers Behind Tom's Retainer Model (00:13:38) Hormozi's 1-1-1 Model in Real Life (00:18:50) Surviving the SEO Upheaval in 2025 (00:19:25) Why Google Maps is Still Gold for Local SEO (00:23:34) How to Use Case Studies to Supercharge Cold Outreach (00:25:59) Should You Scale Your Agency or Stay Lean? (00:31:31) The Most Reliable Remote Income Roadmap (00:35:31) What Agency Life is Really Like (00:39:28) Tom's Favorite ChatGPT and AI Tools (00:41:04) Bali vs Thailand: Which Is Better in 2025? CONNECT: Dan@tropicalmba.com Ian@tropicalmba.com Past guests on TMBA include Cal Newport, David Heinemeier Hannson, Seth Godin, Ricardo Semler, Noah Kagan, Rob Walling, Jay Clouse, Einar Vollset, Sam Dogan, Gino Wickam, James Clear, Jodie Cook, Mark Webster, Steph Smith, Taylor Pearson, Justin Tan, Matt Gartland, Ayman Al-Abdullah, Lucy Bella. PLAYLIST: The Changing Landscape of SEO and the Influence Equation (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/changing-landscape-seo) The Brutal Truth About Business Exits with Rob Walling (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/brutal-truth-about-exits) 1,000 Customers from One Channel (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/1000-customers-one-channel) The First 1,000 Days of Running an Agency (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/1000-days-running-agency?rq=agency)

What if the secret to a successful, profitable podcast isn't more hustle... but boredom?Let's dive into a counterintuitive but powerful idea: intentional boredom. It sounds strange, but it just might be the missing piece in your podcasting monetizing and productivity strategy.Drawing from insights in Cal Newport's DEEP WORK, I'll walk you through how boredom can sharpen your thinking, fuel your creativity, and help you finally cut through the noise.Here's what you'll learn:Why boredom matters more than ever in a distraction-heavy worldHow I've used it to fight overwhelm and stay focusedThe role of saying no, and how it unlocks real momentumWhat it takes to build a podcast that grows with intention and attracts a loyal, engaged audienceThis isn't about working harder. It's about working deeper.If you're tired of chasing trends and ready to create episodes that truly convert, this conversation will change the way you think.We go in-depth on money-making strategies inside the Virtual Podcast School. Join me for live sessions, strategy, and support to keep your podcast growing without burning out.

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1720: Leo Babauta shares a powerful approach to achieving goals through short, focused sprints that cut through procrastination and overwhelm. By committing fully for a limited time and eliminating distractions, you create momentum and clarity that longer-term efforts often lack. Quotes to ponder: "A sprint is a short burst of intense focus, eliminating distractions and excuses." "It's about creating a sacred space of time where you are completely devoted to something meaningful." "The container of a short sprint gives us permission to let go of everything else, and just be in full devotion." Episode references: Deep Work by Cal Newport: https://www.calnewport.com/books/deep-work/ Make Time by Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky: https://maketime.blog/ The Power of Full Engagement by Jim Loehr and Tony Schwartz: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Full-Engagement-Management-Performance/dp/0743226755 The Dip by Seth Godin: https://www.amazon.com/Dip-Little-Book-Teaches-Stick/dp/1591841666 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Shortcast edition, Cal Newport, author of Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World, shares how we can reclaim our time and attention by taking control of our relationship with digital technology. Rather than rejecting tech entirely, Cal proposes a minimalist approach—using technology with intention and only when it supports what truly matters. In this Shortcast, we explore: Digital Minimalism Defined: Cal explains how minimalism isn't about abandoning tech, but using it selectively and purposefully to maximize benefit and minimize distraction. The 30-Day Digital Declutter: A key process in Cal's philosophy—taking a 30-day break from optional digital tools to reflect, reset habits, and rediscover values. Clearing the Slate and Starting Fresh: Cal encourages removing all non-essential apps and tools, then rebuilding your digital life from the ground up based on what serves your goals. Embracing Analog Life: Real-world activities like solitude, deep conversation, and hands-on tasks are vital for human well-being—and often lost in a screen-saturated culture. Mental Health and Focus: Cal highlights how overuse of screens increases anxiety and fragments focus, while digital minimalism promotes clarity, calm, and purpose. Cal's insights are a powerful reminder that the goal isn't to use less tech, but to use it better—with clarity, intention, and aligned values. Learn more at CalNewport.com and explore more ⁠Shortcasts like this one on ⁠⁠Blinkist⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3006: Courtney Carver reveals a transformative secret to boosting productivity: slowing down. By embracing a deliberate pace, you can minimize distractions, heighten focus, and create space for what truly matters. Carver's insights help listeners shift away from the frantic pursuit of doing more and toward a more mindful, impactful way of working. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://bemorewithless.com/productivitysecret/ Quotes to ponder: "Productivity doesn't have to be about doing more, it can be about doing less,  better." "Slowing down creates the space to notice what really deserves your attention." "When you are busy rushing around, you miss the little things that make life sweeter." Episode references: Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport: https://www.calnewport.com/books/digital-minimalism/ Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less: https://gregmckeown.com/books/essentialism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1712: Cal Newport explores the nuanced difference between pursuing a life's calling and simply loving what you do. He challenges the common advice to "follow your passion," revealing how many meaningful careers are built on cultivating rare skills and deep expertise rather than chasing immediate fulfillment. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2010/04/09/corrupted-callings-the-subtle-difference-between-finding-your-lifes-work-and-loving-your-life/ Quotes to ponder: "Following your passion is not just simplistic, it's also dangerous." "Compelling careers often have complex origins." "Mastery, autonomy, and purpose, not instant passion, are what make work truly fulfilling." Episode references: So Good They Can't Ignore You: https://www.amazon.com/Good-They-Cant-Ignore-You/dp/1455509124 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3006: Courtney Carver reveals a transformative secret to boosting productivity: slowing down. By embracing a deliberate pace, you can minimize distractions, heighten focus, and create space for what truly matters. Carver's insights help listeners shift away from the frantic pursuit of doing more and toward a more mindful, impactful way of working. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://bemorewithless.com/productivitysecret/ Quotes to ponder: "Productivity doesn't have to be about doing more, it can be about doing less,  better." "Slowing down creates the space to notice what really deserves your attention." "When you are busy rushing around, you miss the little things that make life sweeter." Episode references: Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport: https://www.calnewport.com/books/digital-minimalism/ Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less: https://gregmckeown.com/books/essentialism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1712: Cal Newport explores the nuanced difference between pursuing a life's calling and simply loving what you do. He challenges the common advice to "follow your passion," revealing how many meaningful careers are built on cultivating rare skills and deep expertise rather than chasing immediate fulfillment. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2010/04/09/corrupted-callings-the-subtle-difference-between-finding-your-lifes-work-and-loving-your-life/ Quotes to ponder: "Following your passion is not just simplistic, it's also dangerous." "Compelling careers often have complex origins." "Mastery, autonomy, and purpose, not instant passion, are what make work truly fulfilling." Episode references: So Good They Can't Ignore You: https://www.amazon.com/Good-They-Cant-Ignore-You/dp/1455509124 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1711: Cal Newport explores the critical distinction between finding work you love and pursuing what he calls a “true calling.” He reveals how conflating passion with profession can leave us chasing illusions, and offers a more grounded path to career fulfillment by focusing on mastery and meaningful impact. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2010/04/09/corrupted-callings-the-subtle-difference-between-finding-your-lifes-work-and-loving-your-life/ Quotes to ponder: "Just because you love something does not mean you have to make a career out of it." "A true calling is not something you find, it's something you grow into." "The best way to find meaning in your life is to build a life around something bigger than yourself." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1711: Cal Newport explores the critical distinction between finding work you love and pursuing what he calls a “true calling.” He reveals how conflating passion with profession can leave us chasing illusions, and offers a more grounded path to career fulfillment by focusing on mastery and meaningful impact. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2010/04/09/corrupted-callings-the-subtle-difference-between-finding-your-lifes-work-and-loving-your-life/ Quotes to ponder: "Just because you love something does not mean you have to make a career out of it." "A true calling is not something you find, it's something you grow into." "The best way to find meaning in your life is to build a life around something bigger than yourself." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's wisdom comes from Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport.   If you're loving Heroic Wisdom Daily, be sure to subscribe to the emails at heroic.us/wisdom-daily.   And… Imagine unlocking access to the distilled wisdom form 700+ of the greatest books ever written.   That's what Heroic Premium offers: Unlimited access to every Philosopher's Note. Daily inspiration and actionable tools to optimize your energy, work, and love. Personalized coaching features to help you stay consistent and focused   Upgrade to Heroic Premium →   Know someone who'd love this? Share Heroic Wisdom Daily with them, and let's grow together in 2025!   Share Heroic Wisdom Daily →

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Do you ever feel a sinking sensation that you're not being "productive” enough? It doesn't just hit at work either, it can tarnish weekends with a weird sense of guilt. Hyper-productivity isn't the answer, that leads to burnout. So, how do we find a happy medium?

Pour télécharger mes notes de lecture : https://robintyonnel.com/notes-de-lecture-slow-productivity/

¡Hola a todos!

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1698: Cal Newport challenges the conventional wisdom that quick email replies signify productivity, revealing how excessive time spent on email can reduce overall effectiveness. He introduces the "E-mail Productivity Curve" to show that after a certain point, more responsiveness leads to diminishing, and even negative, returns in meaningful work output. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.calnewport.com/blog/2015/06/18/the-e-mail-productivity-curve/ Quotes to ponder: "Imagine a graph where the x-axis is time spent in your inbox per day, and the y-axis is your productivity. I call this the E-mail Productivity Curve." "Once you pass a certain threshold, increased time in your inbox makes you less effective, not more." "The easiest way to push past the productivity sweet spot is to try to be hyper responsive to e-mails." Episode references: Deep Work: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Work-Focused-Success-Distracted/dp/1455586692 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1698: Cal Newport challenges the conventional wisdom that quick email replies signify productivity, revealing how excessive time spent on email can reduce overall effectiveness. He introduces the "E-mail Productivity Curve" to show that after a certain point, more responsiveness leads to diminishing, and even negative, returns in meaningful work output. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.calnewport.com/blog/2015/06/18/the-e-mail-productivity-curve/ Quotes to ponder: "Imagine a graph where the x-axis is time spent in your inbox per day, and the y-axis is your productivity. I call this the E-mail Productivity Curve." "Once you pass a certain threshold, increased time in your inbox makes you less effective, not more." "The easiest way to push past the productivity sweet spot is to try to be hyper responsive to e-mails." Episode references: Deep Work: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Work-Focused-Success-Distracted/dp/1455586692 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

¿Te has preguntado alguna vez por qué te sientes agotado al final del día, a pesar de haber estado "ocupado" todo el tiempo? ¿Qué pasaría si te dijera que estar siempre corriendo es precisamente lo que te aleja de tus mayores logros?En este episodio analizamos Productividad Lenta (Slow Productivity, 2024) de Cal Newport, un libro que desafía nuestra obsesión por la hiperactividad y propone un modelo radicalmente diferente: hacer menos, a tu propio ritmo, pero con máxima calidad.Lo que descubrimos es revelador: la cultura del "siempre ocupado" es un legado industrial que ya no funciona para el trabajo creativo, intelectual y emprendedor de hoy.A lo largo del episodio exploramos los tres principios revolucionarios de Newport:

¿Te has preguntado alguna vez por qué te sientes agotado al final del día, a pesar de haber estado "ocupado" todo el tiempo? ¿Qué pasaría si te dijera que estar siempre corriendo es precisamente lo que te aleja de tus mayores logros?En este episodio analizamos Productividad Lenta (Slow Productivity, 2024) de Cal Newport, un libro que desafía nuestra obsesión por la hiperactividad y propone un modelo radicalmente diferente: hacer menos, a tu propio ritmo, pero con máxima calidad.Lo que descubrimos es revelador: la cultura del "siempre ocupado" es un legado industrial que ya no funciona para el trabajo creativo, intelectual y emprendedor de hoy.A lo largo del episodio exploramos los tres principios revolucionarios de Newport:

Despite the fact that so many of them make it look easy, the daily lives of senior U.S. military leaders can be incredibly demanding. Laura Weimer examined how senior leaders manage their well-being (or, at times, struggle to do so) amidst these demanding careers, and she's in the studio with host JP Clark to share her discoveries. Drawing from her research, Weimer highlighted the unique pressures of senior roles, including frequent relocations, intense scrutiny, and the weight of consequential decisions. She also discussed the inevitable challenges of mid-life, such as caring for aging parents and navigating evolving family dynamics, which compound work-related stress. Weimer's key takeaway? Developing a strong sense of identity, meaning, and purpose is essential for fostering resilience and sustaining leadership effectiveness. I don't know if necessarily it's the Army's job to help us figure out our identity. I do think it would be valuable for the Army to acknowledge the value of those conversations and maybe even prompt those conversations. Links to resources referenced by Laura in the episode: Joe Byerly, “Learning to Live a Halfway Interesting Life,” From the Green Notebook (March 19, 2025) https://fromthegreennotebook.com/2025/03/19/learning-to-live-a-halfway-interesting-life/  Briana Barker Caza, Lakshmi Ramarajan, Erin Reid, and Stephanie Creary. "How to Make Room in Your Work Life for the Rest of Your Self." Harvard Business Review (May 30, 2018), https://hbr.org/2018/05/how-to-make-room-in-your-work-life-for-the-rest-of-your-self Cal Newport, “The Most Important Piece of Career Advice You Probably Never Heard,” Cal Newport, May 21, 2008, https://calnewport.com/the-most-important-piece-of-career-advice-you-probably-never-heard/ Nick Craig and Scott A. Snook. 2014. “From Purpose to Impact.” Harvard Business Review, May. https://hbr.org/2014/05/from-purpose-to-impact. Arthur C. Brooks, From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life (Penguin, 2022). Simon Sinek, "The Cure for Loneliness with U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy," A Bit of Optimism Podcast, 7 January 2025. https://open.spotify.com/episode/6wnHgVpkuX0i4CdCEHSFkg?si=c58cf2607d274eb7 This is restricted access (academic): Herminia Ibarra, “Provisional Selves: Experimenting with Image and Identity in Professional Adaptation.” Administrative Science Quarterly 44 (4) (1999): 764–91. https://doi.org/10.2307/2667055. Laura Weimer is an Active Duty Army lieutenant colonel (Military Police) and a graduate of the AY25 Resident course at the U.S. Army War College. She most recently commanded the Headquarters Battalion of the 1st Armored Division at Fort Bliss, TX, and will be returning to Texas in June to serve in U.S. Army Futures Command (soon to be Transformation and Training Command). She taught Military Leadership and Intro to Sociology at West Point from 2013-2016 and holds a Ph.D. In Management from Harvard University, an M.A. in Sociology from Duke University, and a B.S. In Chemistry/Life Sciences from West Point. Her research and writing is focused on leader identity, development, and personal well-being. The views expressed in this presentation are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect those of the U.S. Army War College, U.S. Army, or Department of Defense. Photo Description: Then Lieutenant General (Ret.) Dan Caine, USAF, when he appeared before the 1 April, 2025 Senate Confirmation Committee. Caine was nominated and later confirmed as the 22nd Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The Chairman is the highest-ranking and most senior military officer in the United States Armed Forces and the principal military advisor to the President, the National Security Council, the Homeland Security Council, and the Secretary of Defense. Photo Credit: Screen capture from CSPAN video of 1 April, 2025 Senate Confirmation Hearing.

The Power of Authenticity in Attracting Talent and Changing PerceptionsIn this episode of the Accountant's Flight Plan Podcast, we interviewed fellow podcaster and reputation-building expert Rob Brown. Rob is the host of three accounting-related podcasts with a collective following of over 50,000 listeners and is the author of Build Your Reputation. He has spent over two decades working in business development and training for accountants, who he found to be passionate but often struggling with the interpersonal side of growing a firm.After a life-changing stroke, Rob recalibrated his career to focus on helping accountants shape their stories, amplify their impact, and build personal brands that not only elevate their firms—but the profession as a whole.Timestamps: 00:21 – Introduction of Rob Brown and his background 2:40 – How Rob moved from education to accounting business development 8:00 – The talent crisis and why firm branding matters 12:40 – Authenticity and representation in your firm's story 17:19 – How to build a personal brand (without burning out) 26:46 – Scaling, saying “no,” and making space for growth 32:27 – Who's responsible for the profession's brand? 37:00 – Brannon shares why he chose accounting 40:00 – Funny personal story from Rob 44:30 – Book recommendation: Deep Work by Cal Newport

We continue our Meet a Member series this week with SVCC member Jules Thompson! JM's Album Of The Week: The Mars Volta - Lucro sucio; Los ojos del vacio Bradford's Book Club: Slow Productivity: The Lost Art of Accomplishment Without Burnout by Cal Newport

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1674: Cal Newport challenges the popular belief that passions are magically discovered and instead argues that they're often built over time through deliberate practice and increasing competence. By exploring real-world examples and research, he shows how pursuing what you're good at can ultimately lead to deeply satisfying work. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2009/11/24/are-passions-serendipitously-discovered-or-painstakingly-constructed/ Quotes to ponder: "Passion is a side effect of mastery." "Working right trumps finding the right work." "Compelling careers often have complex origins; they rarely result from a quick match to a pre-existing passion." Episode references: The Courage to Be: https://www.amazon.com/Courage-Be-Paul-Tillich/dp/0300084714 So Good They Can't Ignore You: https://www.amazon.com/Good-They-Cant-Ignore-You/dp/1455509124 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1674: Cal Newport challenges the popular belief that passions are magically discovered and instead argues that they're often built over time through deliberate practice and increasing competence. By exploring real-world examples and research, he shows how pursuing what you're good at can ultimately lead to deeply satisfying work. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2009/11/24/are-passions-serendipitously-discovered-or-painstakingly-constructed/ Quotes to ponder: "Passion is a side effect of mastery." "Working right trumps finding the right work." "Compelling careers often have complex origins; they rarely result from a quick match to a pre-existing passion." Episode references: The Courage to Be: https://www.amazon.com/Courage-Be-Paul-Tillich/dp/0300084714 So Good They Can't Ignore You: https://www.amazon.com/Good-They-Cant-Ignore-You/dp/1455509124 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Economist's Andrew Palmer seeks advice on managing your cognitive load, your career path and the changes that generative AI could bring. He gets tips from Cal Newport, an author and professor of computer science, on how to carve out time away from email; from Jeffery Pfeffer, of Stanford Graduate School of Business, on how to accumulate power; and from Reid Hoffman, LinkedIn's co-founder, on how to get ready for the era of AI.Boss Class season one is free for a limited time. Season two will appear weekly starting May 12th. To hear new episodes, subscribe to Economist Podcasts+. https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plusIf you're already a subscriber to The Economist, you have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Economist's Andrew Palmer seeks advice on managing your cognitive load, your career path and the changes that generative AI could bring. He gets tips from Cal Newport, an author and professor of computer science, on how to carve out time away from email; from Jeffery Pfeffer, of Stanford Graduate School of Business, on how to accumulate power; and from Reid Hoffman, LinkedIn's co-founder, on how to get ready for the era of AI.Boss Class season one is free for a limited time. Season two will appear weekly starting May 12th. To hear new episodes, subscribe to Economist Podcasts+. https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plusIf you're already a subscriber to The Economist, you have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

In episode 456 host Bradley Hartmann explores the dangers of overcommitment through the lens of two contrasting figures: Jim Valvano, the national champion basketball coach at N.C. State and Cal Newport, the Georgetown University professor and author. Bradley reflects on Valvano's life, highlighting how his boundless energy and desire to seize every opportunity ultimately led to burnout and potential health consequences. He draws parallels to his own struggle with saying yes to everything and introduces Cal Newport's productivity philosophies from "Deep Work" and "Slow Productivity.” The key takeaway for listeners is a cautionary tale about the risks of constant hustle and the importance of strategic focus. Hartmann shares personal insights about the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and leaders who struggle to set boundaries. The episode offers practical advice on doing fewer things, working at a natural pace, and prioritizing quality over quantity. Listeners will gain perspective on managing professional commitments, understanding personal limits, and the value of intentional productivity.    This episode is brought to you by The Simple Sales Pipeline® —the most efficient way to organize and value any construction sales rep's roster of customers and prospects in under 30 minutes once every 30 days. *** If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Your feedback will help us on our mission to bring the construction community closer together. If you have suggestions for improvements, topics you'd like the show to explore, or have recommendations for future guests, do not hesitate to contact us directly at info@bradleyhartmannandco.com.  

We were thrilled to talk with author Eowyn Ivey about her new book, BLACK WOODS BLUE SKY. During our conversation, Eowyn shared her writing habits, including a description of her writing cottage, and tells us about her reading life. Topics ranged from motherhood on the page and in real life, her family's literary life in Alaska, and Proust vs Joyce. In our own reading lives, we both read and discuss “The North Mail” by Amelia B. Edwards from THE PENGUIN BOOK OF GHOST STORIES: from Elizabeth Gaskell to Ambrose Bierce. We gave this one four paws up. Or should it be eight paws? Whatever the rating system should be for cougars, we both enjoyed Edwards's story. It has a good creep factor and atmosphere, both indoors and outside. Other books we've enjoyed include novels HAPPY LAND by Dolan Perkins-Valdez and THE GRIFFIN SISTERS GREATEST HITS by Jennifer Weiner; a quartet of novellas, OLD NEW YORK by Edith Wharton; and two works of nonfiction: STORYWORTHY: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life Through the Power of Storytelling by Matthew Dicks and DEEP WORK: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World by Cal Newport. Big thanks to this episode's sponsor, James Crews and Brad Peacock. The new poetry collection they co-edited is available on May 6: LOVE IS FOR ALL OF US: Poems of Tenderness and Belonging from the LGBTQ+ Community and Friends (with illustrations by Lisa Congdon). We also recap a great Biblio Adventure to the Mark Twain House to hear Ethan Rutherford (author of NORTH SUN, OR THE VOYAGE OF THE WHALESHIP ESTHER) in conversation with Amity Gaige about her new novel, HEARTWOOD. Chris also got to attend THE MOUNT'S virtual book club discussion of Edith Wharton's A SON AT THE FRONT and Willa Cather's ONE OF OURS, led by Anne Schuyler and Julie Olin-Ammentorp. As always, there are more books inside this episode than we can fit here! Enjoy, and be sure not to miss our conversation with Eowyn Ivey at the end. Oh, and reminder: our second quarter readalong pick is THE GOOD HOUSE by Tananarive Due (Zoom discussion on 6/8 and also on Goodreads). Thanks for listening, and happy reading! https://www.bookcougars.com/blog-1/2025/episode232 The Good House Goodreads readalong https://www.bookcougars.com/blog-1/2025/episode231 Penguin Book of Ghost Stories Goodreads thread https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/23017532-ghost-stories

Marcus Aurelius' life teaches us how to live well. And because he lived well, his story also teaches us how to die well: with grace, with strength, with empathy, and with the comfort of knowing that he lived a good life as a good man.

What are the benefits of podcasts for learning? How does L&D respond to people leaving the profession? Should we get rid of email? In this week's episode of The Mindtools L&D Podcast, Ross G is joined by Anna and Ross D to answer your questions! During the discussion, Ross D referenced our post 'If your podcast isn't available on mobile, does it make a sound?', and Cal Newport's Deep Work. Ross G referenced the AI 2027 forecast. He also discussed (and wrote about) Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke's recent edict on the use of AI. In 'What I Learned This Week', Anna discussed PowerPoint transitions, from Luis Urrutia. Ross D discussed his new (tidier) LinkedIn URL. Find out how to edit your own. Ross G discussed the former residents of London Bridge. For more from us, visit mindtools.com. There, you'll also find details of our award-winning Content Hub, our Manager Skills Assessment, our Manager Skill Builder and our custom work.  You can also subscribe to our newsletter. Connect with our speakers If you'd like to share your thoughts on this episode, connect with us on LinkedIn: Ross Garner Dr Anna Barnett Ross Dickie

In today's fast-paced world, the pursuit of productivity often leads to overwhelm. In fact, one report suggests that 88% of UK workers have experienced some degree of burnout over the past two years. Feel Better Live More Bitesize is my weekly podcast for your mind, body, and heart. Each week I'll be featuring inspirational stories and practical tips from some of my former guests. Today's clip is from episode 466 of the podcast with Professor of computer science and best-selling author Cal Newport. In this clip Cal shares some actionable advice that can help you reclaim your time, reduce stress, and find a more balanced approach to work and life. Thanks to our sponsor https://www.drinkag1.com/livemore Support the podcast and enjoy Ad-Free episodes. Try FREE for 7 days on Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/feelbetterlivemore For other podcast platforms go to https://fblm.supercast.com. Show notes and the full podcast are available at drchatterjee.com/466 DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1656: Cal Newport explores a counterintuitive approach to career fulfillment, showing how mastery and dedication in your current job, even one that may not seem like a perfect fit, can lead to surprising satisfaction. Through the story of an investment banker turned Zen monk, Newport makes a compelling case for focusing on how you work, not just where you work. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2011/02/14/zen-and-the-art-of-investment-banking-when-working-right-is-more-important-than-finding-the-right-work/ Quotes to ponder: "Working right trumps finding the right work." "Her transformation wasn't sparked by a new job; it was sparked by a new way of doing her old job." "Career satisfaction doesn't come from matching your work to a pre-existing passion, but instead from working right, crafting your work into something that resonates." Episode references: Zen Habits: https://zenhabits.net Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1655: Cal Newport explores a powerful mindset shift through the story of a disillusioned investment banker who finds meaning not by switching careers, but by mastering his craft with intention and clarity. His insight challenges the obsession with "finding the right work" and instead champions working right as a path to fulfillment, regardless of the field. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2011/02/14/zen-and-the-art-of-investment-banking-when-working-right-is-more-important-than-finding-the-right-work/ Quotes to ponder: "Passion is rare; passion is hard to discover and hard to sustain." "The craftsman mindset focuses on what you can offer the world; the passion mindset focuses instead on what the world can offer you." "When you focus on what's rare and valuable, and you develop the skills to offer it, good things happen." Episode references: So Good They Can't Ignore You: https://www.amazon.com/Good-They-Cant-Ignore-You/dp/1455509124 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1654: Carl Pullein breaks down how to turn your calendar into a tool for achieving your biggest goals, not just managing daily tasks. By focusing on time-blocking for meaningful work and aligning your schedule with long-term objectives, he reveals a system that promotes intentional action over reactive busyness. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.carlpullein.com/blog/how-to-use-your-calendar-to-achieve-the-big-things/6/12/2017 Quotes to ponder: "Your calendar tells you where you are supposed to be at any given time of the day." "If you want to accomplish anything of significance, then you need to make time for it." "Time blocking works because it forces you to focus on one thing at a time." Episode references: Getting Things Done by David Allen: https://gettingthingsdone.com/ Deep Work by Cal Newport: https://www.calnewport.com/books/deep-work/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1637: Diligence alone doesn't lead to success, it's about applying effort in the right direction. Cal Newport explains why understanding the broader landscape of your field before committing to a singular path is crucial for achieving remarkable results. By strategically directing your hard work, you maximize the chances of meaningful progress rather than getting stuck on a suboptimal trajectory. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2012/02/05/learn-the-landscape-before-putting-on-blinders-how-to-direct-diligence-toward-remarkable-results/ Quotes to ponder: "Put another way, diligence is only valuable if intelligently directed." "If you want to maximize the return on your efforts, you should first seek to understand the full landscape of possibilities available." "Without this preliminary exploration, you risk committing to an inferior trajectory, diminishing the value of your diligence." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1635: Benjamin Hardy challenges the conventional wisdom of "following your passion," arguing that mastery, success, and happiness come from developing rare and valuable skills rather than chasing preexisting interests. Drawing from Cal Newport's So Good They Can't Ignore You, Hardy explains that confidence and passion are byproducts of excellence, not prerequisites. By continuously investing in yourself, building meaningful relationships, and generously applying your skills to help others, you not only achieve financial success but also cultivate a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://medium.com/thrive-global/how-to-develop-mastery-make-millions-and-be-happy-cd9743c40d12 Quotes to ponder: “If you want to love what you do, abandon the passion mindset (‘what can the world offer me?') and instead adopt the craftsman mindset (‘what can I offer the world?').” “Passion comes after you put in the hard work to become excellent at something valuable, not before.” “You're happiest when you're growing and giving.” Episode references: Strategic Coach by Dan Sullivan: https://www.strategiccoach.com/ Genius Network by Joe Polish: https://www.geniusnetwork.com/ Mindset by Carol Dweck: https://www.amazon.com/Mindset-Psychology-Success-Carol-Dweck/dp/0345472322 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3534: Homo sapiens outlasted other human species not just because of bigger brains, but due to our unique ability for complex planning, a skill that also explains why we procrastinate. Cal Newport argues that procrastination isn't a character flaw but an evolutionary response to weak or vague plans. Instead of forcing ourselves to push through, we should see procrastination as a cue to refine our approach, ensuring our strategies, whether for studying, work, or personal goals, are truly effective. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://calnewport.com/the-procrastinating-caveman-what-human-evolution-teaches-us-about-why-we-put-off-work-and-how-to-stop/ Quotes to ponder: “The most obvious answer [to the question of Homo sapiens' survival] is that we had bigger brains. But it turns out that what matters is not overall brain size but the areas where the brain is larger - one of the crucial elements of Homo sapiens' adaptations is - complex planning.” “What I'm arguing is that the complex planning component of your brain evaluates this plan as it has evolved to do and then rejects it as not sound.” “Procrastination is not your enemy. It is instead a constructive source of criticism, a voice from our paleolithic past telling us that although it likes our goals, we need to put a little bit more thought into how we're going to get there.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're all pretty good at cramming more into our days—stretching our to-do lists until they resemble CVS receipts. But what if the real cheat code to sustained productivity has nothing to do with doing more? In this episode, I dive into an often-ignored strategy that could save you from running on fumes. And yes, I may or may not reference 90s R&B to drive the point home.For more go to: www.scottmlynch.comLevel up your life by joining my Patreon where you'll get exclusive content every week and more badass offerings (rips t-shirt in half, Hulk Hogan style, and runs around the room). And/or…Unlock practical and tactical insights on how to master your mindset and optimize your happiness directly to your inbox.If you're a glutton for punishment and want more swift kicks in the mind follow me on social:InstagramYouTubeLeave a review and tell me how I suck so I can stop doing that or you can also tell me about things you like. I'd be okay with that, too.Produced by ya boi.Past guests on The Motivated Mind include Chris Voss, Captain Sandy, Dr. Chris Palmer, Joey Thurman, Jason Harris, Koshin Paley Ellison, Rudy Mawer, Molly Fletcher, Kristen Butler, Hasard Lee, Natasha Graziano, ⁠David Hauser⁠, Cheryl Hunter, Michael Brandt, Heather Moyse, Tim Shriver, and Alan Stein, Jr.

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 1619: Cal Newport highlights a major flaw in modern knowledge work: most professionals are inefficient due to constant distractions and a lack of structure. Instead of relying on shallow, reactive tasks like checking emails and attending meetings, he advocates for a systematic approach to deep work, where focused, high-value output takes priority. By restructuring workflows and reducing unnecessary interruptions, professionals can drastically improve productivity and job satisfaction. Read along with the original article(s) here: http://calnewport.com/blog/2012/11/21/knowledge-workers-are-bad-at-working-and-heres-what-to-do-about-it/ Quotes to ponder: "Knowledge workers, I argued, are notoriously bad at working. They get very little done, and they do so inefficiently." "If you're a knowledge worker, your job is to create value with your brain. If you're not doing deep work, you're probably not creating much value." "Start by identifying the small number of core activities that generate the most value. Then structure your working life to optimize the amount of time you spend engaged in these activities." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan sits down with Neel Parekh (CEO of MaidThis Franchise) to talk about the shifts that drive real business growth—why decision-making matters more than productivity, how time compression accelerates success, and why bigger businesses can create more freedom. They dive into the power of accountability, hiring smarter, and using personal branding to attract the right opportunities. Plus, Neel shares how he scaled through franchising—an unconventional path for a lifestyle business—balancing hustle, risk, and long-term rewards. What's missing in your business that's keeping you stuck? Connect with 1000+ global founders running profitable online businesses without sacrificing their unique lifestyles @ dynamitecircle.com (http://dynamitecircle.com/). CHAPTERS (00:02:02) Compressing Time for Success (00:04:17) The Law of a Thousand Hours (00:07:43) Staying Motivated Through Accountability (00:11:28) Building Confidence in Your Business Model (00:17:25) The Paradox of Growth and Lifestyle (00:24:35) Understanding the Franchise Model and Its Costs (00:26:16) The Challenges of Running a Franchise (00:26:31) The Decision to Franchise vs. Self-Expansion (00:30:44) Vetting Franchisees: Finding the Right Fit (00:31:22) Success Rates and Expectations in Franchising (00:37:01) The Entrepreneurial Mindset: Risk and Reward (00:39:51) The Durability of the Cleaning Business Model (00:43:51) Finding Excitement in Business and Life (00:44:09) Expanding Business Opportunities (00:44:50) The Hustle-Life Balance (00:46:49) The Power of Decision Making CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC (http://dynamitecircle.com/) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) PLAYLIST "The Tailwind Index" & Dodging Business Blindspots (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/tailwind-index-dodging-business) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Success Without Sacrifice? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/success-without-sacrifice) Past guests on TMBA include Cal Newport, David Heinemeier Hannson, Seth Godin, Ricardo Semler, Noah Kagan, Rob Walling, Jay Clouse, Einar Vollset, Sam Dogan, Gino Wickam, James Clear, Jodie Cook, Mark Webster, Steph Smith, Taylor Pearson, Justin Tan, Matt Gartland, Ayman Al-Abdullah, Lucy Bella Simkins, Brian Balfour, Nick Huber, Mike Michalowicz, Greg Crabtree, Jordan Gal

The team takes you inside the DC. Who we are, what to expect, and how you can grow your business with the support of other founders on the same journey. Connect with 1000+ global founders running profitable online businesses without sacrificing their unique lifestyles. Join Dynamite Circle. (https://dynamitecircle.com/) CHAPTERS (00:03:36) Introduction to DC (00:05:11) Genesis of DC (00:06:55) Culture & Composition (00:09:59) Application Process and Vetting (00:19:06) Events and Networking Opportunities (00:25:20) Support for High-Level Founders (00:29:14) Joining the Dynamite Circle CONNECT Email Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Follow on X (https://x.com/TropicalMBA) Follow on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) LINKS Join Dynamite Circle (https://dynamitecircle.com/) Subscribe to the newsletter (tropicalmba.com/subscribe) Get our book: Before the Exit (https://www.amazon.com/Before-Exit-Thought-Experiments-Entrepreneurs-ebook/dp/B07BN2KD1J) PLAYLIST Niche B2B Content = Big Revenue on YouTube (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/b2b-content-youtube) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Is Your Biggest Expense Helping or Hurting? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/your-biggest-expense) Past guests on TMBA include Cal Newport, David Heinemeier Hannson, Seth Godin, Ricardo Semler, Noah Kagan, Rob Walling, Jay Clouse, Einar Vollset, Sam Dogan, Gino Wickam, James Clear, Jodie Cook, Mark Webster, Steph Smith, Taylor Pearson, Justin Tan, Matt Gartland, Ayman Al-Abdullah, Lucy Bella Simkins, Brian Balfour, Nick Huber, Mike Michalowicz, Greg Crabtree, Jordan Gal

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3504: Cal Newport highlights Eric Betzig's unconventional path to a Nobel Prize to reveal a key insight, real success comes from doing what it takes, not just refining what we already know. He challenges us to stop making safe tweaks and start taking bold steps toward true breakthroughs. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://calnewport.com/doing-what-it-takes-versus-taking-what-you-already-know-how-to-do/ Quotes to ponder: "When Eric Betzig wanted to return to academia, he asked, 'what would this take?' The answer was daunting, a breakthrough too good to be ignored, but nonetheless he hustled to make it happen." "We take what we can do, in other words, instead of facing the reality of what it would take to get where we want to go." "I also suspect that one of the main filters between those who end up changing the world and those who don't is how they answer this unavoidable prompt." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The stories we tell ourselves shape our businesses—but how much of it is true? External validation, from market response to honest feedback, is key. Dan & Jeff break down common entrepreneurial mistakes, business strategy, product-market fit, sales, opportunity assessment, and why knowing your numbers (even without a finance background) matters. P.S. Still taking all the sales calls for your business? You need a wingman (https://meetwingman.com/). CHAPTERS (00:02:43) Building entrepreneurial endurance (00:03:35) It's easy to be dishonest with yourself (00:06:49) Tailwind index helps assess market needs (00:15:43) Focus on solving immediate pain points (00:18:38) Communicate effectively with your target market (00:23:39) Monthly business reviews (MBR) (00:25:18) Basic financial hygiene is crucial (00:27:08) Having the courage to be disliked (00:31:52) Contribution vs validation (00:34:22) Tasks vs responsibilities CONNECT Dan “at” tropicalmba dot com Ian “at” tropicalmba dot com LINKS Join the DC (http://dynamitecircle.com/) Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tropicalmba/) PLAYLIST Niche B2B Content = Big Revenue on YouTube (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/b2b-content-youtube) The Unexpected Downsides of Selling Your Business (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/exit-founders-disappointed) Is Your Biggest Expense Helping or Hurting? (https://tropicalmba.com/episodes/your-biggest-expense) Past guests on TMBA include Cal Newport, David Heinemeier Hannson, Seth Godin, Ricardo Semler, Noah Kagan, Rob Walling, Jay Clouse, Einar Vollset, Sam Dogan, Gino Wickam, James Clear, Jodie Cook, Mark Webster, Steph Smith, Taylor Pearson, Justin Tan, Matt Gartland, Ayman Al-Abdullah, Lucy Bella Simkins, Brian Balfour, Nick Huber, Mike Michalowicz, Greg Crabtree, Jordan Gal