Podcasts about questioners

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: Adina Soclof explores Gretchen Rubin's Four Tendencies framework to help parents better understand how children respond to rules, expectations, accountability, and independence. By recognizing whether a child is an Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, or Rebel, parents can communicate more effectively, reduce conflict, and build stronger, more supportive relationships at home. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://parentingsimply.com/childhood-personality-types/ Quotes to ponder: "Questioners are the children who are constantly asking for explanations of why they have to do what they are doing." "Rebel children need love and understanding." "You can just put a little on your plate, or you could just take one and taste it." Episode references: The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin: https://gretchenrubin.com/books/the-four-tendencies/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Blank stares after a thoughtful question can make even great teachers doubt themselves. We have all been there: one student answers, everyone else checks out, and a rich Jewish text turns into a worksheet. So we focus on what actually changes the room fast practical classroom techniques you can try tomorrow to spark real thinking and real conversation.We start by reimagining chavruta, not as “turn and talk,” but as a structured partnership with roles like Questioner, Connector, and Challenger. That simple move turns reading into dialogue and gives every learner a clear way to contribute. From there we shift into inquiry-based Jewish learning: treating Torah and Talmud like problems to solve instead of facts to recite. We lean into tension, contradiction, and moral complexity, and we practice the hardest skill of all not rescuing students too quickly so they can discover meaning for themselves.Then we widen the lens to experiential Jewish education. We talk about embodied learning through acting out biblical scenes, using movement to build memory, and helping students locate themselves inside the ideas. We also share reflection prompts that move from learning about Judaism to living Judaism, plus ritual as pedagogy: experiencing Shabbat with candles and quiet before explaining what it “means.” You will walk away with concrete tools for student engagement, deeper comprehension, and stronger Jewish identity.If this helps, subscribe so you do not miss what we are trying next, share the episode with a colleague, and leave a review so more Jewish educators can find it. Chapter Markers0:01Welcome And Sponsor Message2:04From Blank Stares To Dialogue2:55Chavruta Roles That Spark Talk4:19Treat Text Like A Mystery5:31Learn By Moving And Acting6:45Reflection That Makes It Personal7:35Ritual As A Teaching Tool8:13One Small Shift Challenge8:54A Closing Question For YouWellnesse Natural Personal Care ProductsWellnesse was founded by a mom who wanted healthier options for families. Check out my unique link!AmazonWe receive a small commission for any items purchased through my Amazon link.Parenting On PurposeThis course will help you better understand your child and build a deeper connection.TikvahTikvah focuses on Classical Jewish Education.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Stand-alone sermon. New Series Coming Soon!

Decluttering, organizing, and building habits that stick — today I'm talking with Gretchen Rubin (author of The Happiness Project and The Four Tendencies) about why clutter keeps coming back, how to finally follow through, and how to get your home under control for good. If you struggle to start, procrastinate, or can't maintain a tidy house, this episode will change how you see your expectations, yourself, and the systems you use. Gretchen Rubin is one of my biggest heroes. Her work changed my life when I was drowning, and in this conversation we go deep on the ideas that help you actually do the thing. Maintenance sometimes feels like the hardest part of home management, and that's what we tackle in this episode. Gretchen breaks down The Four Tendencies (Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, Rebel) and explains how she discovered this framework by noticing a simple pattern: the same person can do something effortlessly in one context and feel totally stuck in another. We talk about what it means to meet or resist outer expectations (deadlines, other people) vs inner expectations (the promises you make to yourself)—and why that difference matters so much when you're trying to declutter or keep up with everyday housework. You'll hear why I'm an Obliger (and how outer accountability helped me grow my business), how to “speak someone's language” instead of trying to force your system onto them, and why Rebels often feel trapped by routines—even the ones they choose. We also dig into something I'm obsessed with right now: the perfectionism/procrastination loop that keeps people stuck, and my approach to breaking through the roadblock so you can finally get momentum. We cover Obliger Rebellion—that moment when you've been giving and giving… and suddenly you go nuclear. If you've ever snapped, quit, cut someone off, or hit a breaking point that felt like it came out of nowhere, Gretchen's explanation will make you feel seen (and give you a better way forward). If you've ever thought, “I know what to do . . . I just can't make myself do it,” this is the episode you've been waiting for. Want to get organized? Learn 6-Step The Clutterbug Method: https://clutterbug.thinkific.com/courses/Clutterbug-Method You can find more Clutterbug content here: Main YouTube Channel: @Clutterbug Website: http://www.clutterbug.me TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@clutterbug_me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clutterbug_me/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Clutterbug.Me/ For more with Gretchen Rubin, please visit https://gretchenrubin.com/ And here is the direct link for Clutterbug's collaboration with Gretchen: https://gretchenrubin.com/move-26-in-26-with-clutterbug/ Gretchen's photo by Allie Coyle #clutterbug #podcast #ClutterbugPodcast #CasAarssen #GretchenRubin #TheFourTendencies #FourTendencies #HappinessProject #Decluttering #DeclutterYourHome #HomeOrganization #OrganizingTips #GetOrganized #OrganizedHome #Clutter #ClutterFree #HouseholdManagement #HomeManagement #CleaningMotivation #Habits #HabitBuilding #FollowThrough #Procrastination #Perfectionism #ProgressNotPerfection #Accountability #OuterAccountability #Obliger #RebelTendency #Questioner #Upholder #ExecutiveFunction #Productivity #Motivation #Expectations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We talk about why proposing an anchor date makes it easier to set plans with friends. We also include answers from Questioners about why they don’t like to answer questions—and how to get them to answer questions. Plus helpful ideas for grappling with grief. Resources & links related to this episode: Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happiness Project Collection, and the Happier app. Find the transcript for this episode on the episode details page in the Apple Podcasts app. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Text your thoughts and questions!If you've listened to the podcast before, you know that there isn't a one-size-fits-all approach to productivity. So if you feel like you're constantly fighting against your own brain, forcing yourself to use productivity systems that just don't stick, and feeling overwhelmed in trying to be disciplined, you've likely been trying to operate in systems that weren't designed for your unique wiring. This week, on episode 298 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I am continuing my special series guiding you through my Positively Productive Toolkit and talking about how your strengths and personality can be used to your productivity advantage. In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share why self-awareness is your number one productivity tool and outline how you can use my Assessments Workbook to help you quit forcing strategies that don't fit and start choosing the habits and tools that support you. The assessments I cover in this episode include:The Big Five (OCEAN): Think of this as your trait blueprint, measuring 5 broad traits (Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism) on a spectrum.The Four Tendencies: This framework by Gretchen Rubin categorizes you as an Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, or Rebel based on how you handle inner and outer expectations, revealing your natural motivation style.VIA Strengths: Unlike performance-based tests, this identifies your top character strengths and uncovers which qualities you naturally express to help you lean into what is already strong and meaningful within you.16 Personalities: Considered a modern version of the Myers-Briggs test, this assesses how you instinctively think, relate, and connect with the world.Your strengths, personality, and tendencies are not obstacles to overcome. Rather, they are your greatest advantages. Stop trying to fit into someone else's system and start designing a life that fits you.Stop trying to fit into someone else's productivity rules! Grab my free Productivity Toolkit, a collection of workbooks designed to help you explore how you work, uncover what truly matters to you, and create your very own energy-friendly systems. Get it here: www.positivelyproductive.com/plpkitCONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:FacebookInstagramResourcesWork with Lisa! LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)Ep 1: The #1 Tool to Achieve ProductivityEp 88: Play to Your Strengths with Julia de'CanevaEp 181: How to Improve Your Productivity Using the Four TendenciesEp 267: How the Big 5 Personality Quiz Helps You Achieve MoreEp 268: Build Strong Habits Based On Y

In this episode of SuperPsyched, Dr. Adam Dorsay interviews Gretchen Rubin, author of 'The Four Tendencies'. They explore how people respond to internal and external expectations and the resulting personality profiles: Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, and Rebel. Gretchen explains the genesis of her framework and its practical applications in everyday life. The discussion covers strategies for handling different tendencies, especially in relationships, and delves into the concept of Obliger Rebellion. Listeners will gain valuable insights into improving self-management and interpersonal dynamics.00:00 Introduction to SuperPsyched00:28 Understanding Expectations01:07 Meet Gretchen Rubin02:49 The Genesis of the Four Tendencies05:23 Exploring the Four Tendencies07:58 Applying the Four Tendencies13:30 Personal Insights and Reflections16:07 The Importance of Accountability21:34 The Importance of Effective Communication21:38 Humorous Signs and Their Impact24:29 Tailoring Messages to Different Tendencies25:33 The Power of 'Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires'27:22 Navigating Relationships with Different Tendencies34:20 Understanding Obliger Rebellion38:33 The Value of Meaningful Connections39:59 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsHelpful Links:Gretchen Rubin WebsiteThe Four Tendencies BookHappier with Gretchen Rubin Podcast

Sometimes people ask a hard question: “Has God forgotten to be gracious?” It is not hard to answer, in one sense, but it shows a certain hardness in their soul to suggest that the unchanging God of grace has somehow altered in himself or ceased to be himself. So Spurgeon demands that we give that question all its weight, drag it into the light, and interrogate the question. By the end of the sermon, the question has become less a challenge to God and more a rebuke to ourselves. Spurgeon puts the question first of all in the mouth of a child of God who is cast down. Then he suggests that it might be found on the lips of a seeking sinner. Finally, and briefly, he wonders how it would play in the heart of a dispirited gospel worker. In each case, he forces us to follow the logic of our own doubts, often showing a merciful lack of mercy in pressing the case toward its ugly conclusion, before turning the question back upon us to expose our unbelief and present God to us in all his unchanging faithfulness and abundant grace. It is not easy to be dealt with so robustly, but Spurgeon evidently believes that there is some value in his rigorous dealings with souls. If we have been tempted to cover up our wounds of unbelief with the plaster of high-sounding words, Spurgeon is going to rip off the plaster and instead apply some astringent medicine to our souls—painful, perhaps, but profitable indeed. Read the sermon here: https://www.mediagratiae.org/resources/a-question-for-a-questioner Check out the new From the Heart of Spurgeon Book! British: https://amzn.to/48rV1OR American: https://amzn.to/48oHjft Connect with the Reading Spurgeon Community on Twitter! https://twitter.com/ReadingSpurgeon Sign up to get the weekly readings emailed to you: https://www.mediagratiae.org/podcasts-1/from-the-heart-of-spurgeon. Check out other Media Gratiae podcasts at www.mediagratiae.org Download the Media Gratiae App: https://subsplash.com/mediagratiae/app

Sometimes people ask a hard question: "Has God forgotten to be gracious?" It is not hard to answer, in one sense, but it shows a certain hardness in their soul to suggest that the unchanging God of grace has somehow altered in himself or ceased to be himself. So Spurgeon demands that we give that question all its weight, drag it into the light, and interrogate the question. By the end of the sermon, the question has become less a challenge to God and more a rebuke to ourselves. Spurgeon puts the question first of all in the mouth of a child of God who is cast down. Then he suggests that it might be found on the lips of a seeking sinner. Finally, and briefly, he wonders how it would play in the heart of a dispirited gospel worker. In each case, he forces us to follow the logic of our own doubts, often showing a merciful lack of mercy in pressing the case toward its ugly conclusion, before turning the question back upon us to expose our unbelief and present God to us in all his unchanging faithfulness and abundant grace. It is not easy to be dealt with so robustly, but Spurgeon evidently believes that there is some value in his rigorous dealings with souls. If we have been tempted to cover up our wounds of unbelief with the plaster of high-sounding words, Spurgeon is going to rip off the plaster and instead apply some astringent medicine to our souls—painful, perhaps, but profitable indeed.

Why You Keep Starting Over (And The Habit System That Actually Works)If you keep starting over with your workouts, nutrition, or routines and you're starting to think the problem is your motivation or discipline, this episode will completely change how you think about habits.Because the truth is: willpower isn't the problem. Most people are using a habit system that doesn't match how they're wired. And when that happens, even the best plan eventually falls apart.In this episode of the Redefining Strength Podcast I sit down with Gretchen Rubin, one of the world's leading experts on habits, happiness, and human nature and the New York Times bestselling author of The Happiness Project, Better Than Before, and The Four Tendencies.Together, we'll break down:Why some people need accountability, some need freedom, some need clarity, and why forcing yourself into the wrong system keeps you stuckThe Four Tendencies framework (Upholders, Questioners, Obligers, and Rebels) and how each type should build habits differentlyWhy identity can either support your goals or secretly sabotage themThe simple One-Minute Rule that can dramatically reduce mental clutter and build momentumHow to stop blaming yourself and finally build habits that actually stickIf you've ever said:“I'm great for a few weeks and then I fall off.”“I know what to do, I just can't stay consistent.”“I feel like I'm always starting over.”This episode is for you.

Today, we're thrilled to share a conversation with New York Times bestselling author and happiness expert Gretchen Rubin, where we explored one of her most practical and game-changing frameworks: the Four Tendencies.Gretchen explains that we all face two types of expectations—outer expectations, like a church calling or a request from a boss or family member, and inner expectations, like a personal goal or habit. She observed that people tend to respond to these expectations in one of four consistent ways. She defines these responses as the Upholder, the Questioner, the Obliger, and the Rebel.Gretchen believes that understanding this one aspect of your personality can bring surprising clarity to your habits, relationships, and responsibilities.In faith communities, expectations often come from many directions—God, leaders, our ward family, and ourselves. This framework offers a gentle way to understand why some people feel energized, while others quietly burn out.Gretchen shares clear, practical strategies for each tendency so you can work with your nature, not against it. Whether you're navigating a calling, serving a mission, experiencing doubt, or trying to build a consistent scripture study habit, she shows how to avoid burnout and follow through.We've been so excited to share this episode. Once you start seeing yourself and others through the lens of the Four Tendencies, things shift. You'll begin to understand why your spouse loves checklists, why your teen needs to do things their own way, or why it can be so hard to say no. Gretchen explains that these patterns aren't flaws—they're clues, blueprints that can help us make better choices, lower stress, and show up more fully in our lives.We hope it's as eye-opening for you as it was for us.If you want to go deeper into the Four Tendencies or explore more of Gretchen's work, you can check out her book The Four Tendencies or her other bestsellers The Happiness Project and Better than Before. She also hosts an award-winning podcast called Happier with Gretchen Rubin where she and her sister dive into practical ways to build habits, boost happiness, and live with more intention. Thanks again for listening.

Welcome to another edition of This Week in Work, where Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott break down the latest news on people, culture, and behavioral science. This week, we look at the direct, measurable impact of toxic culture and unpack the new anxieties surrounding Artificial Intelligence. Plus, in our Truth or Lies segment, we dive deep into the science behind 'faking it 'til you make it'.

Does Vedic Meditation solve all our problems? And if it's so good, why are some Vedic meditators less than perfect?In this Ask Thom Anything episode, Thom explores the impacts of Vedic Meditation in response to questions from listeners.Questions include: a query about the compatibility of Vedic Meditation with talk therapy; an investigation into the characteristics of Vedic meditators; and an enquiry into why Vedic Meditation might be more effective than some other spiritual practices.The episode gives food for thought, for meditators and non-meditators alike.Episode Highlights[00:45] Q - How does Vedic Meditation fit in with talk therapy?[01:16] A - A Fault of the Age of Ignorance[03:42] Providing Context for Content[05:44] What Are the Therapeutic Goals?[07:36] Self-Sufficiency - The Ultimate Therapeutic Goal[10:29] Q - Why are some Vedic Meditators still jerks? [10:56] A - The Question is a Reflection of the Questioner[13:50] Don't Water the Weeds[16:30] Vedic Meditation Always Aids Progress[18:19] Q - Why Should I Add Vedic Meditation to My Spiritual Practices?[18:52] A - Thinking About Thinking[20:39] Thought Clusters and Spiritual Essence[22:58] Here's How to Experience BeingUseful Linksinfo@thomknoles.com https://thomknoles.com/https://www.instagram.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.facebook.com/thethomknoleshttps://www.youtube.com/c/thomknoleshttps://thomknoles.com/ask-thom-anything/

We discuss why a weekly "Saturday Synch-up" can reduce squabbling and make coordinating schedules much easier. We also share happiness lessons learned from six months of living with a puppy. Plus, we answer a listener question about the best way for an Obliger to ask questions of a Questioner without causing resistance. Resources & links related to this episode: Listen to the new podcast Since You Asked with Lori Gottlieb and Gretchen Rubin Check out the new Happiness Project tools Take the Four Tendencies quiz: Are you an Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, or Rebel? Elizabeth is: So busy that she's not reading anything right now Gretchen is reading: Millions by Frank Cottrell Boyce (Amazon, Bookshop) Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happiness Project Collection, and the Happier app. Find the transcript for this episode on the episode details page in the Apple Podcasts app. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textThe Four Tendencies in Birth: How Knowing Yourself Shapes Your ExperienceIn this episode of The Ultimate Birth Partner Podcast, I explore how Gretchen Rubin's Four Tendencies framework can help women, partners, and birth professionals better understand how we respond to expectations — and why that matters so much in pregnancy and birth.I share real-life examples of how each Tendency (Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, Rebel) might prepare for birth, how they may respond in the moment, and the unique challenges or strengths they bring into the birth room.You'll hear:✨ Why self-awareness is one of the most powerful tools you can take into labour✨ How partners can better support by recognising their own style and their loved one's needs✨ Why birth professionals and doulas benefit from tailoring their approach depending on the woman or family they're working with✨ What to do if you don't know your care provider's Tendency — and how to get your point across clearly in the moment✨ How to express your own Tendency in your Birth Manifesto® so your values, priorities, and boundaries are unmistakably clearThis episode is full of stories, practical strategies, and even scripts you can use to explain yourself to others, helping you strengthen your inner compass and stay aligned with what matters most.Resources & Links:Learn more about creating your Birth Manifesto® in my Discover Your North Star course - https://payhip.com/b/8PSYiGretchen Rubins The Four Tendencies Quiz - https://gretchenrubin.com/quiz/the-four-tendencies-quiz/If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend or leave a review — it makes such a differenceIf you love the podcast and would like to support it, then please use the link to 'buy me a coffee' - https://bmc.link/sallyannberesfordIf you would like to buy a copy of either of the books that accompany this podcast please go to your online bookseller or visit Amazon:-Labour of Love - The Ultimate Guide to Being a Birth Partner - click here:-https://bit.ly/LabourofloveThe Art of Giving Birth - Five Key Physiological Principles - https://amzn.to/3EGh9dfPregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth' - Black and White version https://amzn.to/3CvJXmOPregnancy Journal for 'The Art of Giving Birth'- Colour version https://amzn.to/3GknbPFYou can find all my classes and courses on my website - www.sallyannberesford.co.uk Follow me on Instagram @theultimatebirthpartner Book a 1-2-1 session with Sallyann - https://linktr.ee/SallyannBeresford Please remember that the information shared with you in this episode is solely based on my own personal experiences as a doula and the private opinions of my guests, based on their own experiences. Any recommendations made may not be suitable for ...

Many things start with a question.  One of my teachers used to say “Questions are alive; answers are dead.”  Sometimes a small question of curiosity ultimately leads to a scientific breakthrough.  Sometimes a big sweeping question about the meaning of the universe could ready us for an encounter with the Creator.  A mentor's single question may enable a student to escape the rut of well-explored thinking to find a new arena of possibilities.  A direct question might shake a politician off script and allow people an authentic moment of genuine connection.  Questions can kick off a new relationship, prepare the ground for crucial decisions, or pave the way for deep understanding. Jerusalem was abuzz with questions after Jesus' memorable arrival to the city in Mark 11.  His manner of entering the gates carried hints of royalty, a whiff of prophecy, and inklings of revolution.  The rumor mill turned in overdrive, and for many, expectations for something good were sky high.  What will he do next? 

We discuss how to make use of counterintuitive research that shows that our ability to change our minds often makes us less satisfied with our choices. We share a helpful smartphone hack for scheduling text messages. Plus we continue our discussion about handling a spouse who makes hurtful "jokes," with practical advice from listeners who've successfully addressed this issue. Resources & links related to this episode: Take the Four Tendencies quiz to find out whether you're an Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, or Rebel Order your copy of Secrets of Adulthood Sign up for Bookshop's summer reading challenge on the homepage at gretchenrubin.com Download the Happier app Elizabeth is reading: The Other Side of Midnight by Sidney Sheldon (Amazon, Bookshop) Gretchen is reading: Round the Bend by Neville Shute (Amazon, Bookshop) Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happiness Project Collection, and the Happier app. Find the transcript for this episode on the episode details page in the Apple Podcasts app. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the “Four Tendencies” personality framework, tech legend Steve Jobs was a Questioner. At a crucial moment, his question was ignored—with profound consequences. Resources & links related to this episode: Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happiness Project Collection, and the Happier app. Find the transcript for this episode on the episode details page in the Apple Podcasts app. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You LOVE science, but no matter how much you learn about it, you wind up with more questions than answers. What's really going on in outer space? How does gravity just... work? And magnets — how are they even possible?! To most people, these questions are totally impossible, but you won't rest until you figure them out. Be the first to know about Wondery's newest podcasts, curated recommendations, and more! Sign up now at https://wondery.fm/wonderynewsletterListen to Whose Amazing Life? on the Wondery App or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen early and ad-free on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App or Wondery Kids+ Apple Podcasts. Start your free trial by visiting wondery.com/links/whose-amazing-life/ now.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shiur given by Rabbi Bezalel Rudinsky on the topic of Klalei Horaah. Shiur given to the Kollel at Ramat Givat Zev in Eretz Yisroel.

233 - Tests to Understand What Makes Us Tick Understanding personal motivation and behavior is one of the most powerful tools for self-improvement. This episode explores how personality tests can offer practical insight into how people work, what energizes them, and why certain strategies succeed where others fail. It's not about putting people into boxes—it's about using patterns and traits as clues to navigate life more effectively. Top Topics: Recognizing Behavioral PatternsEveryone has habits and responses that repeat, often without noticing. Personality assessments help bring those patterns into focus. By observing what consistently works—and what doesn't—it's possible to better understand tendencies, motivations, and blind spots. That kind of clarity opens the door to intentional, sustainable change. How Myers-Briggs Transforms RelationshipsOne of the most widely known assessments, Myers-Briggs can offer insights into how people process information, make decisions, and interact with others. Learning to appreciate the strengths and weaknesses in different personality types leads to deeper understanding and stronger connections, especially in friendships and partnerships with contrasting traits. The Four Tendencies: Motivation in FocusDeveloped by Gretchen Rubin, the Four Tendencies framework identifies how people respond to expectations—both external and internal. Recognizing whether someone is an Upholder, Obliger, Questioner, or Rebel makes it easier to build effective habits and avoid frustration. For many, it's the missing piece in understanding why traditional advice doesn't always work. StrengthsFinder and the Value of Self-Knowledge at WorkStrengthsFinder identifies what people naturally do best. Knowing whether someone thrives in problem-solving, communication, learning, or leadership roles allows for smarter career decisions and more effective teamwork. It shifts the focus from fixing weaknesses to building on existing strengths. Exploring the Landscape of Personality ToolsBeyond the big names, several other tools—such as the Big Five, Enneagram, DISC, and Hogan assessments—offer additional layers of insight. Each test highlights different aspects of personality, from emotional stability to core values and work preferences. Understanding how these assessments differ helps in selecting the right tool for personal or professional growth. Takeaways: Personality tests are more than entertaining quizzes—they can be transformative frameworks for self-awareness. Knowing how someone responds to pressure, what drives their behavior, and where they naturally excel provides a roadmap for making better decisions, reducing friction in relationships, and achieving goals more effectively. Rather than guessing or mimicking someone else's approach, these insights allow for tailored strategies that align with how a person actually operates. When people understand what makes them tick, they can stop fighting their nature and start building lives that truly fit. https://startwithsmallsteps.com/what-makes-us-tick-using-personality-tests-to-understand/ Jill's Links https://abetterlifeinsmallsteps.com https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsJillday https://affiliate.notion.so/NorthwoodsAI https://www.youtube.com/@startwithsmallsteps https://www.buymeacoffee.com/smallstepspod https://twitter.com/schmern Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

We discuss how creating before-and-after photo books of renovations or improvements can bring satisfaction and preserve memories. Our happiness hack suggests visiting your local library (or museum) for the first time; that first visit can be surprising to make. We also share listeners’ strategies for handling a spouse who asks too many questions at inopportune times. Resources & links related to this episode: Order your copy of Secrets of Adulthood Read 25 in 25 Bookshop Pledge to Read 25 on June 25th Visit The Happiness Project shop for Father's Day gifts Elizabeth is reading: All the Way to the River: Love, Loss, and Liberation by Elizabeth Gilbert (Amazon, Bookshop) Gretchen is reading: The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde (Amazon, Bookshop) Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happiness Project Collection, and the Happier app. Find the transcript for this episode on the episode details page in the Apple Podcasts app. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gretchen Rubin is one of today's most influential observers of happiness and human nature. In addition to hosting the award-winning podcast Happier with Gretchen Rubin, where she shares practical strategies for building a happier, healthier, more creative life, Gretchen is also the bestselling author of The Happiness Project, The Four Tendencies, Better Than Before, Life in Five Senses, and now Secrets of Adulthood, a delightful collection of her signature aphorisms—concise, thought-provoking truths gathered from her own experiences and reflections on human nature. Today, Gretchen shares a wealth of bite-sized, digestible truths with Jen and Amy that acknowledge problems everyone faces.  “What we do every day matters more than what we do once in a while.” “Outer order contributes to inner calm.” “A strong voice repels as well as attracts.” “Don't let perfect be the enemy of good.” And our personal favorite, “Choose the bigger life.” Gretchen also delves into the Four Tendencies and helps Jen and Amy unpack their profiles to better understand whether they are an Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, or Rebel.  Anyone want to take bets? Thought-provoking Quotes: “Happier people are  more interested in the problems of the world. And they're more interested in the problems of the people around them. They're more likely to volunteer. They're more likely to vote. They're more likely to donate their time or their money. They're more likely to help out if someone needs a hand. When we're happier, we're able to turn outward and to think about the problems of the world.” – Gretchen Rubin “Action is the antidote to anxiety.” – Gretchen Rubin “There's really no more eloquent way to put this: one of the best ways to make friends is to make friends with the friends of your friends.” – Gretchen Rubin “When we're doing something hard, it feels like the times are hard." – Gretchen Rubin Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage - https://santiago-compostela.net/ Secrets of Adulthood: Simple Truths for Our Complex Lives by Gretchen Rubin - https://amzn.to/4kq8TzF The Happier App - https://thehappierapp.com/ David Sedaris The Happiness Project: Or, Why I Spent a Year Trying to Sing in the Morning, Clean My Closets, Fight Right, Read Aristotle, and Generally Have More Fun by Gretchen Rubin - https://amzn.to/3S9OXox The Four Tendencies Quiz - https://gretchenrubin.com/quiz/the-four-tendencies-quiz/  The English Understand Wool by Helen DeWitt - https://amzn.to/43iUOgg The Last Samurai by Helen DeWitt - https://amzn.to/43tjDaF 5 Things Making Me Happy Newsletter - https://gretchenrubin.com/newsletter/5-things-making-me-happy-september-16-2022/ Sandwich: A Novel by Catherine Newman - https://amzn.to/4m9KGiy Guest's Links: Website - https://gretchenrubin.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gretchenrubin/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/GretchenRubin Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/GretchenRubin TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@gretchenrubin Connect with Jen!Jen's Website - https://jenhatmaker.com/ Jen's Instagram - https://instagram.com/jenhatmakerJen's Twitter - https://twitter.com/jenHatmaker/ Jen's Facebook - https://facebook.com/jenhatmakerJen's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/JenHatmaker The For the Love Podcast is presented by Audacy.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whether you're primarily an Upholder (loves a to-do list), Obliger (rises to the occasion for others), Rebel (desires freedom) or Questioner (loves to know how things work), we've got tips for maintaining systems - for you and the people living in your home with you! Home are ecosystems with many different tendencies in play. Understanding how everyone responds to expectations can help us set up and maintain systems that help us love each other, and love each other well! Resources:The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin Video Interviews with Each Tendency Fair Play by Eve Rodsky

Y'all have either read or watched the Wheel of Time series, by Robert Jordan/Brandon Sanderson, right (I highly recommend the books, but I understand if reading 15,000 pages of description isn't your thing.  The show started out ok, and it has grown on me, you should give it another try)?  You know how the Children of the Light, the paramilitary group informally known as the Whitecloaks.  They have an embedded group dedicated to rooting out the darkness.  That group is called the Questioners and they are loosely modeled after the Spanish Inquisition that was created by Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile in the year of our lord (As Tiler would say) 1478.  The Questioners do just that; put people to the question, and through various methods extract a confession out the subject of their ire. Most of the time their confessions are from the innocent who are simply trying to end the torture.  I never understood how can the Whitecloaks even do this when their ranks are filled with Darkfriends. It's a shameful organization considering how easily they were infiltrated, and how quickly their hypocrisy was found out.  Yet they do play an important role in the story, even if the the whole Two Rivers arc was drawn out over three books. The one thing Whitecloaks do is put people to the question. The Phantom Phinders do the same in this episode.   Thank you for attending my TED Talk   ~Mark     Make sure to rate and review us on iTunes and then reach out on Twitter or to our email to get an NPC named in Carrefour! Check out our new website: QMtabletop.com and the new Delta Green Podcast Directory https://twitter.com/QMoftheTableTop https://www.instagram.com/quartermastersofthetabletop/ https://www.tiktok.com/@qmottt https://youtube.com/@QuartermastersoftheTabletop https://linktr.ee/qmottt Chaos Springs Eternal Season One: City of Woe is set in Carrefour Louisiana and follows the members of the Phantom Phinders, a public access ghost hunting TV show as they explore the strange and weird happenings. We use the Delta Green TTRPG rules. Warning: The podcast does contain violent themes and explicit language as well as potential mental hazards. Nyarlathotep reigns. Imla ìbaz ehccema iam Lehpar. intro/outro music is: Cocytus by Pawns or Kings background music is from Hideous Hiss (https://www.youtube.com/@hideoushiss) Published by arrangement with the Delta Green Partnership. The intellectual property known as Delta Green is a trademark and copyright owned by the Delta Green Partnership, who has licensed its use here. The contents of this podcast are ©Chaos Springs Eternal excepting those elements that are components of the Delta Green intellectual property.

➡️ Like The Podcast? Leave A Rating: https://ratethispodcast.com/successstory  In this "Lessons" episode, Gretchen Rubin, Happiness Expert, breaks down the four tendencies framework that illuminates how responses to expectations shape behavior. Learn why identifying whether you're an upholder, questioner, obliger, or rebel is vital for self-awareness, and understand how this insight empowers better decision-making and personal growth.➡️ Show Linkshttps://successstorypodcast.com  YouTube: https://youtu.be/sBxJD-Hn9JIApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/gretchen-rubin-nyt-bestselling-author-podcaster-speaker/id1484783544Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2VINQSxl2eynFL1K8FZLks➡️ Watch the Podcast on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/c/scottdclary

What if the reason you're not reaching your goals isn't a lack of effort—but misalignment? In this energizing episode, Kevin and Alan unpack what alignment really means in your personal growth journey. They explain why understanding your path and who you're becoming matters more than just hitting milestones. With relatable stories, practical coaching insights, and a few fun moments, you'll come away with greater clarity on how to measure progress and make better choices.Learn more about:Next Level Live 2025 - https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/next-level-live/Saturday, April 5th, 2024 (10:00 am to 4:00 pm EST)_____________________NLU is not just a podcast; it's a gateway to a wealth of resources designed to help you achieve your goals and dreams. From our Next Level Dreamliner to our Group Coaching, we offer a variety of tools and communities to support your personal development journey.For more information, please check out our website at the link below.

The book of Habakkuk is a great reminder to not only be committed to the Scriptures, but also to be committed to prayer. This is especially important for those called to lead. It is wise for the church to choose leaders who lead from their knees. Habakkuk 3:1-19 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The goal is to create a friendly and inviting atmosphere to kick off the audience Q&A. Rewarding the first questioner at the beginning of the Q&A segment of your panel discussion is a great way to inspire great questions for the panelists.

We discuss why and how we might try to make one new friend in 2025—a huge happiness booster. We also explore two creative happiness hacks that make it easier to stick to a habit of walking. Plus we tackle a fascinating Four Tendencies question about managing a Questioner spouse's barrage of daily questions, and we delve into how people differ in remembering their past experiences, comparing "snapshot" versus "movie" memory styles. Resources and links related to this episode: “The Paradox of Purpose: Those We Support Become Our Strength” Secrets of Adulthood Memento Keepsake Journal One-Sentence Journal Four Tendencies hub Elizabeth is reading: Look Closer by David Ellis (Amazon, Bookshop) Gretchen is reading: When Mrs. Coverlet Was Away by Mary Nash (Amazon) Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happiness Project Collection, and the Happier app. Find the transcript for this episode on the episode details page in the Apple Podcasts app. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you've ever wondered how you can better motivate yourself, this episode about The Four Tendencies is for you! Sammie and Michelle are big fans of The Four Tendencies.  Sammie is an Upholder and is the go to person to get things done, for herself and for anyone in her life. Michelle is a Rebel. She does not like to be told what to do, whether that's from the outside or even listening to herself. They also cover Questioners (needing to know the why) and Obligers (better at meeting outer expectations) in this episode. Sammie and Michelle found that understanding their tendency was a huge key in unlocking their own success.  Take Gretchen Rubin's The Four Tendencies Quiz: https://gretchenrubin.com/quiz/the-four-tendencies-quiz/Find more show notes and interact with the Build A Wealthy Spirit community at buildawealthyspirit.com!

Welcome to the second of a multi-part series where I cover brief and not-so-brief highlights from many of my favorite podcast guests! Learn about Gretchen Rubin’s 4 Tendencies (Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, and Rebel), hear a major life lesson from my 107-year-old barber, and another one from Seth Godin, who reminds us to “turn that s*it off!” when faced with distraction. You’ll hear from Ray Sidney, Google’s fifth-ever employee, on the importance of pure motivation, why Mark Manson says “self-worth is an illusion”, and that our purpose in life is to “create a string of hope narratives.” I share key advice from John Assaraf on how to rewire your brain for success, as well as important words from Dr. Ron Sinha, who warns us of the dangers of rumination and consumerism—the “hedonic treadmill.” You will also hear from Dr. Robert Lustig, who describes the “hacking of the American Mind” with corporate-driven instant gratification dopamine hits, Dr. Judson Brandeis on sexual health, and learn how to improve your eyesight with Jake Steiner. Finally, William Shewfelt offers a powerful perspective on having a resilient success mindset and Jeff Kahn explains the sleep bank account. TIMESTAMPS: In her book, Gretchen Rubin categorizes four main categories that people fall into with their behavior patterns. They are the upholder, the questioner, the obliger, and the rebel. [00:49] Here's what the research shows. The population, 41% of the population are obligers. 24% are questioners, 19% are upholders, and 17% are rebels. [12:55] The world’s oldest barber, at 107, gave Brad a haircut and inspired Brad’s longevity aspirations. [13:40] Seth Godin talked about persevering especially in athletics. [17:24] You must motivate yourself for the right reasons. [19:50] Mark Manson says that self-worth is an illusion, and it's actually a form of persistent low-level narcissism. You can learn to merge your thinking brain with your feeling brain. [23:11] The brain-training expert, John Assaraf, talked about the obstacles to rewiring our brain. You need to take baby steps. [30:31] If you are on the treadmill of the rat race of trying to achieve more and more, you are sacrificing your health and mental well-being. [33:57] When you ruminate about the past, that generally promotes depression and ruminating about the future, generally promotes anxiety. [37:08] Dr. Brandeis contends that 95% of erectile dysfunction problems are psychological. There is nothing wrong with the plumbing. [40:51] Jake Steiner is an expert on vision is challenging some of the foundational premises of using corrective eyewear. [42:47] William Shewfelt talks about having a plan, locking in that mindset and just never giving up. [44:26] Jeff Kahn, sleep expert suggests that you treat your sleep like a bank account. When you experience a deficit for whatever reason, strive to make that up. [48:48] In the last 40 years, government legislation and subsidies have promoted an ever- available temptation combined with constant stress, with the end result of an unprecedented epidemic of addiction, anxiety, depression, and chronic disease. [51:29] LINKS: Brad Kearns.com Brad’s Shopping page B.rad Whey Protein Isolate Superfuel - The Best Protein on The Planet! Available in Three Delicious Flavors: Vanilla Bean and Cocoa Bean and our Newest Flavor, Peanut Butter! B.rad Superfruits - Organic Freeze-Dried Exotic Fruit Powder! Natural Electrolyte Hydration & Energy Powder Four Tendencies Podcast with Gretchen Rubin Interview with Anthony Mancinelli The Dip The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck Everything is F*cked Podcast with Mark Manson Podcast with John Assaraf Atomic Habits South Asian Diet Solution The Way of the Peaceful Warrior Podcast with Dr. Judson Brandeis Podcast with Jake Steiner Podcast with William Shewfelt Podcast with Jeff Kahn, Sleep Expert Dr. Robert Lustig The Hacking of the American Mind Join Brad for more fun on: Instagram: @bradkearns1 Facebook: @bradkearnsjumphigh Twitter: @bradleykearns YouTube: @brad.kearns TikTok: @bradkearns We appreciate all feedback, and questions for Q&A shows, emailed to podcast@bradventures.com. If you have a moment, please share an episode you like with a quick text message, or leave a review on your podcast app. Thank you! Check out each of these companies because they are absolutely awesome or they wouldn’t occupy this revered space. Seriously, I won’t promote anything that I don't absolutely love and use in daily life: Peluva: Comfortable, functional, stylish five-toe minimalist shoe to reawaken optimal foot function. Use code BRADPODCAST for 15% off! Mito Red Light: Photobiomodulation light panels to enhance cellular energy production, improve recovery, and optimize circadian rhythm. Use code BRAD for 5% discount! GAINSWave: Enhance sexual function with high frequency shockwave therapy. Buy 6 and get one treatment free with code: BRAD Wild Health: Comprehensive online health consultation with blood and DNA testing, personal coaching and precision medicine. Get things dialed in! Use discount code BRAD20 for 20% off! Take The Cold Plunge online course! B.rad Whey + Creatine Superfuel: Premium quality, all-natural supplement for peak performance, recovery, and longevity. New Cocoa Bean flavor! Online educational courses: Numerous great offerings for an immersive home-study educational experience Primal Fitness Expert Certification: The most comprehensive online course on all aspects of traditional fitness programming and a total immersion fitness lifestyle. Save 25% on tuition with code BRAD! Male Optimization Formula with Organs (MOFO): Optimize testosterone naturally with 100% grassfed animal organ supplement Brad's Favorites on Amazon I have a newly organized shopping experience at BradKearns.com/Shop. Visit here and you can navigate to my B.rad Nutrition products (for direct order or Amazon order), my library of online multimedia educational courses, great discounts from my affiliate favorites, and my recommended health&fitness products on Amazon.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Choosing a one-word theme is one of the most fun and thought-provoking exercises within the “Design Your Year” set. Here, we review our themes for 2024 and reveal the themes we've chosen for 2025. We also share a hack for choosing a powerful theme, and include many of the themes chosen by listeners. Resources and links related to this episode: Happiness Project Shop  Tips for making a "25 for '25" list Print your own "25 for '25" list One-Sentence Journal  Happier in Hollywood newsletter sign-up Habits for Happiness quiz: What's the next new habit that will make you happier? Four Tendencies quiz: Are you an Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, or Rebel?  Gift-Giving quiz: What kind of gift makes you happy? "5 Things Making Me Happy" newsletters   Ethan Mollick's newsletter “One Useful Thing" Hard Fork podcast Muse Machine Gretchen is reading: Ink Blood Sister Scribe by Emma Torzs (Amazon, Bookshop)  Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happiness Project Collection, and the Happier app.  Find the transcript for this episode on the episode details page in the Apple Podcasts app. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this solo episode I talk about being a Questioner and 'wrestler.' One who must grapple with things in order to make peace with life or the circumstance in front of me, and find my way forward. If I lived full time in grief or pain, or in the grappling process, this would hold me back from living fully and thriving forward. But resistance itself is not wrong or bad. It's part of the grief process. The letting go process. Coming to terms with things really and truly. Not just shoving down our feelings or pain and pretending all is well.If you're in a season of needing to let go of the life you wanted to embrace the one you have, I share 5 truths to help you honour your process, move at a soul-honouring pace, and offer yourself compassion each step of the way.Read the blog post: Let Go Of The Life You Wanted And Embrace The One You HaveSign up for the free Quiet the Noise Challenge: Join The Quiet The Noise Challenge: Nov 18-22 | A Life In Progress

We explore ways to make each day of the week special by recognizing small pleasures. We discuss a practical hotel checkout tip to avoid forgetting items. Also, we examine the value of allowing yourself to go into “shock” when facing big assignments or feedback, and how this pause can lead to clearer thinking and better responses. Plus we ask, “What lesson have you learned the hard way?” Resources and links related to this episode: Four Tendencies Personality Quiz: Are you an Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, or Rebel? Happiness Hacks Card Deck Elizabeth is reading: Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand (Amazon, Bookshop)  Gretchen is reading: Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar (Amazon, Bookshop)  Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happiness Project Collection, and the Happier app.  Find the transcript for this episode on the episode details page in the Apple Podcasts app.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Grit Show, Shawna Rodrigues uncovers the secrets behind why we succeed—or fail—to meet expectations. Featuring Gretchen Rubin's acclaimed personality framework, Shawna touches on the characteristics of Upholders, Questioners, Obligers, and Rebels - focusing on Upholders and Questioners to open this conversation. She shares intriguing personal experiences, like how her questioning nature affects her work and offers examples of the Upholders in her life, such as her partner, responding to clear expectations. Perfect for anyone seeking to understand their own behavior, improve their relationships, and better understand what it takes to motivate ourselves and others - this episode is packed with eye-opening insights. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration into the way we handle life's demands and how understanding our tendencies can empower us.Make sure you are following or subscribed to this podcast to hear the conclusion of this conversation and more on Rebels and Obligers.Take Gretchen Rubin's quiz on the Four TendenciesOther episodes referenced: Delay Don't Deny & Fast Feast Repeat with NYT Bestselling Author Gin Stephens -31Send Shawna an email with your questions and thoughts for the next episode: connect@thegritshow.comShawna Rodrigues left her award-winning career in the public sector in 2019 and after launching The Grit Show, soon learned the abysmal fact that women hosted only 27% of podcasts. This led to the founding of the Authentic Connections Podcast Network intent on raising that number by 10% in five years- 37 by 27. Because really, shouldn't it be closer to 50%? She is the Director of Impact for the network, which offers full-service support for podcasting from mentoring to production. In September 2023 they are also launching the EPAC (Entrepreneurs and Podcasters Authentically Connected) community for those in early stages and wanting a place for weekly connection. She still finds a little time for her pursuits as a best-selling author and shares the hosting of Author Express, a podcast that features the voice behind the pages of your favorite book. Find her on Instagram- @ShawnaPodcasts and learn more about the network and other happenings at https://linktr.ee/37by27.Stay Connected to The Grit ShowFollow us on Instagram: @The.Grit.ShowGrab your copy of our Self-Care Coloring Pages & as a bonus, you'll get weekly email reminders when episodes come out!https://ColoringPages.TheGritShow.comYou can also purchase the full-size gift worthy Color of Grit Adult Coloring Book here bit.ly/TGSMermaidReally love us and want to show it??Give us a review on your favorite platform and share this (or any) episode with afriend. Word of mouth builds podcasts - we appreciate your support!!...

In this Flashback Friday episode, I'm excited to revisit my conversation with the insightful Gretchen Rubin, marking the 550th episode of A Productive Conversation! This conversation explores her book, The Four Tendencies. We dive into how these four personality types—Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, and Rebel—can influence our behavior, decision-making, and even how we interact with others.Having been involved in her Four Tendencies course, I've always been fascinated by the insights she offers on understanding ourselves better. Whether you're new to this concept or revisiting it like me, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to help you better understand your own tendencies and those of the people around you.Key Discussion Points What led Gretchen to identify and define the Four Tendencies: Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, and Rebel. How the Four Tendencies can impact habit formation and how to leverage your tendency to make effective changes. Examples of how each tendency interacts with expectations, both internally and externally. The importance of creating structures that align with your tendency, such as setting boundaries for obligers or emphasizing freedom for rebels. Real-life applications of the Four Tendencies in work and personal life, including relationships and productivity. Insights into how Gretchen's work has evolved, including her other books like The Happiness Project, and the role these ideas play in her daily life. I hope this throwback episode with Gretchen Rubin gave you some new perspectives on how personality frameworks can impact your productivity, relationships, and general well-being. If you're curious to learn more, make sure to check out Gretchen's work and take the Four Tendencies quiz to see where you fit in. Understanding your tendencies might just be the key to unlocking a more productive, and satisfying, life. (Originally released January 2018)Links Worth Exploring Connect with Gretchen: Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn Get Gretchen's Book: The Four Tendencies Take The Four Tendencies Quiz: Check it out Take The Four Tendencies Course: Start here Read Grechen's piece on National Novel Writing month: Read it now Related Conversation: Episode 454: Michelle Segar Talks About Habits and The Joy Choice Related Blog Post: Finding Your Best First Day of the Year 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 Flashback Friday episode, I'm excited to revisit my conversation with the insightful Gretchen Rubin, marking the 550th episode of A Productive Conversation! This conversation explores her book, The Four Tendencies. We dive into how these four personality types—Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, and Rebel—can influence our behavior, decision-making, and even how we interact with others. Having been involved in her Four Tendencies course, I've always been fascinated by the insights she offers on understanding ourselves better. Whether you're new to this concept or revisiting it like me, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to help you better understand your own tendencies and those of the people around you. Key Discussion Points What led Gretchen to identify and define the Four Tendencies: Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, and Rebel. How the Four Tendencies can impact habit formation and how to leverage your tendency to make effective changes. Examples of how each tendency interacts with expectations, both internally and externally. The importance of creating structures that align with your tendency, such as setting boundaries for obligers or emphasizing freedom for rebels. Real-life applications of the Four Tendencies in work and personal life, including relationships and productivity. Insights into how Gretchen's work has evolved, including her other books like The Happiness Project, and the role these ideas play in her daily life. I hope this throwback episode with Gretchen Rubin gave you some new perspectives on how personality frameworks can impact your productivity, relationships, and general well-being. If you're curious to learn more, make sure to check out Gretchen's work and take the Four Tendencies quiz to see where you fit in. Understanding your tendencies might just be the key to unlocking a more productive, and satisfying, life. (Originally released January 2018) Links Worth Exploring Connect with Gretchen: Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn Get Gretchen's Book: The Four Tendencies Take The Four Tendencies Quiz: Check it out Take The Four Tendencies Course: Start here Read Grechen's piece on National Novel Writing month: Read it now Related Conversation: Episode 454: Michelle Segar Talks About Habits and The Joy Choice Related Blog Post: Finding Your Best First Day of the Year 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 her book The Four Tendencies, author and podcaster Gretchen Rubin outlines her personality framework based upon how you respond to internal and external expectations. Upholders, Questioners, Obligers, and Rebels approach decluttering and organizing differently, which Rubin outlines briefly in her book Outer Order, Inner Calm. Today I dive a bit more into Rubin's four tendencies and provide some additional recommendations on how to create a personalzed decluttering plan based upon your type! Resources Mentioned (affiliate links may be included): Four Tendencies Quiz Outer Order, Inner Calm: Declutter and Organize to Make More Room for Happiness by Gretchen Rubin The Four Tendencies: The Indispensable Personality Profiles That Reveal How To Make Your Life Better (and Other People's Lives Better, Too) by Gretchen Rubin The Minimalists' Mins Game *2 Year Pod-iversary Review Giveaway! Ends September 30!*

Gretchen Rubin is one of today's most influential and thought-provoking observers of happiness and human nature. We discuss happiness at length in today's conversation, but we also discuss frameworks, and I think you're going to find right off the bat that Gretchen sees things in terms of frameworks, in terms of theory. But she's also known for her ability to convey complex ideas from science, to literature, to stories from her own life, with levity and clarity. So, we bring her into this conversation and we actually bring myself in to today's conversation, and I think that will make it really come to life. She's a writer, and she's going to articulate how much she loves writing and how big of an impact writing has made on her life and how she sees the world. She's the author of many bestselling books, such as The Happiness Project, Better than Before, and The Four Tendencies, which has sold millions of copies in more than 30 languages. Her most recent book, which we reference in today's conversation, is Life in 5 Senses. She's also the host of the popular podcast Happier with Gretchen Rubin and the founder of the award-winning “Happier” app, which helps people track their happiness-boosting habits. She's been interviewed by Oprah, she's spent time with Daniel Kahneman, she's walked arm-in-arm with the Dalai Lama, and her work has been reported on in a medical journal (which eventually got written up in The New Yorker). So, she's been in all kinds of interesting spaces; she's also been an answer on Jeopardy, which is a claim to fame for her. I think this conversation will give you a sense of yourself, which is what I really appreciate about it; it'll make you think about yourself and hopefully make you a little more aware of how you show up for you and for others. Gretchen had a number of amazing insights during our conversation. Some of them include: “If we want to make our lives happier, healthier, more productive, more creative, one of the things we need to figure out is how to make habits” (6:00). “Depending on whether we meet or resist outer and inner expectations, that's what makes us an upholder, a questioner, an obliger, or a rebel” (7:50). “Upholders are people who readily meet both outer and inner expectations” (8:00). “Questioners question all expectations; they'll do something if they think it makes sense” (10:25). “Obliger is the biggest tendency, for both men and women” (16:00). “Obligers are people who readily meet outer accountability, but they struggle to meet inner accountability” (16:10). “If you want to meet an inner expectation as an obliger, you need to create a system of outer accountability” (16:25). “The way to keep a promise to yourself is to make a promise to someone else” (16:55). “Rebels resist all expectations, outer and inner alike” (17:35). “From the practical comes the transcendent” (19:55). “My behavior follows from my identity” (22:10). “Allow rebel children to face the consequences of their actions; that is how a rebel learns” (23:20). “Sometimes these little adjustments in communication can have massive consequences in behavior” (25:05). “Once you understand the mechanism of what's going on, it's a lot easier to address it” (28:10). “For many people, there's a sense that they kind of neglect” (30:50). “Whatever you want to achieve in your life, even if they're contradictory, the five senses can help you” (35:50). “I really get tremendous satisfaction out of just being able to explore ideas in all these different ways and exercise my creativity in a lot of different ways” (40:40). “We want to accept ourselves and also expect more from ourselves” (44:25). “I think the word motivation is very complicated” (46:25). “You can't expect to be motivated by motivation” (47:30). “I never define happiness” (1:04:45). “We all can decide for ourselves what it means to be happy” (1:05:00). “Negative emotions have a very important part to play” (1:06:05). “If you get interested in something, really try to become a minor expert” (1:15:30). “The more you know, the more questions you have” (1:16:05). Additionally, you can find everything you need to know about Gretchen and connect with her on her website, as well as following her on all social media platforms @GretchenRubin. I'd also highly encourage you to check out Gretchen's podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, wherever you consume your podcasts. Thank you so much to Gretchen for coming on the podcast! I wrote a book called “Shift Your Mind” that was released in October of 2020, and you can order it on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Additionally, I have launched a company called Strong Skills, and I encourage you to check out our new website https://www.strongskills.co/. If you liked this episode and/or any others, please follow me on Twitter: @brianlevenson or Instagram: @Intentional_Performers. Thanks for listening.

Show NotesThe Four Tendencies QuizThe Four Tendencies Book Here is a virtual accountability site, FocusMate, that our friend Jackie loves! ChatGPTCommunity Time:Thank you Laura for your comment on our episode “We are never going back to work”Thank you Kevin for inquiring about the term “Fi-Curious”Thank you LaLa ✿Indie Maker✿ for restacking our post 189. What If I Get Bored During My Sabbatical?Want to Join Michelle's Sabbatical Course?Michelle and Toby recently reunited with the first cohort of their sabbatical course. It is more than just a course, it is a community of people looking to think outside the corporate box. Anyone interested in sabbaticals is welcome to join. . Click here if you are interested in joining the course!Find more show notes and interact with the Build A Wealthy Spirit community at buildawealthyspirit.com!

“Preach” is back! We're thrilled to launch our second season with Timothy Radcliffe, O.P., a renowned Dominican from the English Province, as our guest for the premiere episode. Timothy brings extensive experience as the former worldwide leader of his order, as well as a distinguished preacher, spiritual author, guide and sought-after retreat leader. Though his leadership and wisdom have long been recognized in the church, his international profile was significantly elevated when Pope Francis invited him to co-lead the retreat ahead of the synod, where he preached alongside Mother Maria Ignazia Angelini, O.S.B., winning great acclaim and respect from Catholics in the pew and cardinals alike. In this episode of “Preach,” Timothy shares how he went about preparing for that retreat and offers valuable insights and wisdom drawn from his extensive experience in retreat ministry, spiritual writing and leadership. He also sheds light on the distinctive characteristics of Dominican preaching, particularly its emphasis on doctrine, and shares practical guidance for preachers and retreat leaders seeking to deepen their own ministry. When asked about synodal preaching, Timothy emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and authenticity. “I think that it's crucial in all preaching,” he says, “but perhaps most especially in synodal preaching, that you come across not as somebody who knows it all, but as a searcher, a doubter, a questioner.” He echoes Pope Francis' words, “Where there are no questions, our faith is dead. If there are no questions, God's not there.” “We need to be prepared to admit as preachers, ‘this is what I struggle with. This is what I don't understand,'” he says. “‘Will you help me?'” Get daily Scripture reflections and support “Preach” by becoming a digital subscriber to America Magazine. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to another inspiring episode of "Women of Impact"! Today, our incredible host, Lisa Bilyeu, sits down with the brilliant and insightful Gretchen Rubin, best-selling author and happiness expert. Together, they explore the fascinating world of personal tendencies and how they shape our ability to meet expectations and form lasting habits. Gretchen delves into her "Four Tendencies" framework—obligers, questioners, upholders, and rebels—offering invaluable insights on how to leverage these traits to achieve personal success and happiness. In this episode, you'll discover the powerful role that outer accountability, self-awareness, and embracing individual differences play in our emotional well-being. Lisa and Gretchen highlight the importance of enjoying the journey rather than just the outcome, the impact of sleep, diet, and exercise on our moods, and the transformative effects of focusing on relationships and connecting through our senses. Gretchen also shares her wisdom from her latest book, "Life in Five Senses," and offers practical tips for using music, taste, and even scent to enhance our emotional states and deepen our relationships. Whether you're a rebel resisting the norm or an obliger thriving with accountability, this conversation will provide you with the tools and perspectives needed to craft your unique path to happiness. Tune in and get ready to be inspired! SHOWNOTES 00:00 Seek new experiences, address loneliness, take action. 05:27 Focus on actionable steps, not just outcomes. 08:44 Questioning traps, obstacles, and external validation in happiness. 13:40 Meditation didn't work, that's okay, I'm different. 15:54 Four tendencies framework identifies individual personality types. 18:47 Obligers need outer accountability for inner expectations. 22:55 Questioners seek thorough understanding before taking action. 26:36 Sweetheart not ideal as accountability partner. 28:01 Empowerment through understanding habits and choices. 34:29 Strong relationships, support crucial for happiness. 36:26 Five senses are key to happiness and wellness. 39:37 Lost memory leads to new taste experiences. 45:19 Indulging senses can uplift and energize. 46:14 Effusive praise for genius scent and yearning. 49:28 Encouraging self-improvement through subscription and following. CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at https://impacttheory.co/shopifyWOIsept  Tabu: Go to https://www.heytabu.com/discount/LISA15 and use code LISA15 to save 15% off your order FOLLOW LISA: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisabilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/womenofimpact Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisa_bilyeu?lang=en LISTEN AD FREE + BONUS EPISODES on APPLE PODCASTS: apple.co/womenofimpact Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to another inspiring episode of "Women of Impact"! Today, our incredible host, Lisa Bilyeu, sits down with the brilliant and insightful Gretchen Rubin, best-selling author and happiness expert. Together, they explore the fascinating world of personal tendencies and how they shape our ability to meet expectations and form lasting habits. Gretchen delves into her "Four Tendencies" framework—obligers, questioners, upholders, and rebels—offering invaluable insights on how to leverage these traits to achieve personal success and happiness.In this episode, you'll discover the powerful role that outer accountability, self-awareness, and embracing individual differences play in our emotional well-being. Lisa and Gretchen highlight the importance of enjoying the journey rather than just the outcome, the impact of sleep, diet, and exercise on our moods, and the transformative effects of focusing on relationships and connecting through our senses.Gretchen also shares her wisdom from her latest book, "Life in Five Senses," and offers practical tips for using music, taste, and even scent to enhance our emotional states and deepen our relationships. Whether you're a rebel resisting the norm or an obliger thriving with accountability, this conversation will provide you with the tools and perspectives needed to craft your unique path to happiness. Tune in and get ready to be inspired!SHOWNOTES00:00 Seek new experiences, address loneliness, take action.05:27 Focus on actionable steps, not just outcomes.08:44 Questioning traps, obstacles, and external validation in happiness.13:40 Meditation didn't work, that's okay, I'm different.15:54 Four tendencies framework identifies individual personality types.18:47 Obligers need outer accountability for inner expectations.22:55 Questioners seek thorough understanding before taking action.26:36 Sweetheart not ideal as accountability partner.28:01 Empowerment through understanding habits and choices.34:29 Strong relationships, support crucial for happiness.36:26 Five senses are key to happiness and wellness.39:37 Lost memory leads to new taste experiences.45:19 Indulging senses can uplift and energize.46:14 Effusive praise for genius scent and yearning.49:28 Encouraging self-improvement through subscription and following.CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORSShopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at https://impacttheory.co/shopifyWOIsept Tabu: Go to https://www.heytabu.com/discount/LISA15 and use code LISA15 to save 15% off your orderFOLLOW LISA:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisabilyeu/Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisabilyeuYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/womenofimpactTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lisa_bilyeu?lang=enLISTEN AD FREE + BONUS EPISODES on APPLE PODCASTS: apple.co/womenofimpact Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Dicey Bastards Crew put their feet up after a long hard days adventuring and answer the questions of you, the loyal and beautiful listener. Time Travel Panel Van is where we end up.Dicey Bastards is a hilarious actual play comedy adventure where comedy writers go head-to-head in D&D 5e. Ridiculous characters battle their ridiculous destiny in a quest for glory and wonder!Featuring MK Gibson, Drew Hayes, Rick Gualtieri, Robert Bevan, EM Kaplan and Steve Wetherell. Check us out at www.authorsanddragons.com or follow us on https://www.facebook.com/groups/authorsanddragons. You can even support us on www.patreon.com/authorsanddragons and get access to our Discord features and bonus content.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/authors-dragons-comedy-dnd-podcast--5624719/support.

We suggest several practical solutions to common, but challenging, social situations. We also address a listener's question, “Do Questioners ever experience Questioner-rebellion?” and discuss the know-yourself-better question of “Is your birthday important to you?” Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Follow on social media: @GretchenRubin & @LizCraft on Instagram @GretchenRubin on TikTok and YouTube Get the podcast show notes by email every week: happiercast.com/shownotes Get the resources and all links related to this episode here: http://happiercast.com/452 Get Gretchen Rubin's newest New York Times bestselling book Life in Five Senses to see how she discovered a surprising path to a life of more energy, creativity, luck, and love: by tuning in to the five senses. Now availablewherever books are sold. Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happiness Project Collection, and the Happier app.  To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices