This episode is the first installment of Season 3 in our monthly PM Talks series, where Patrick Rhone and I slow things down to explore the ideas that quietly shape how we live and work. This time, we start with an act of honesty right out of the gate—being transparent about when the episode was recorded—and let that openness set the tone for everything that follows.
From there, the conversation unfolds into something deeper. We talk about honesty not as a moral stance, but as a practical one—especially when it comes to time, commitments, and the stories we tell ourselves about why things don’t happen. January has a way of inviting big intentions, and this discussion is a timely reminder that clarity begins with truth.
Six Discussion Points
- Why the hardest lies to spot are the ones we tell ourselves
- The difference between urgency and immediacy—and why it matters
- “I don’t have time” as a story, not a fact
- How calendars can act as commitments, not constraints
- Honesty about capacity, energy, and personal rhythms
- Why knowing who you are (and aren’t) changes everything
Three Connection Points
Honesty isn’t about being harsher with ourselves—it’s about being clearer. This conversation is an invitation to pause, notice, and tell better stories about what we can actually do with the time and energy we have.
What is A Productive Conversation?
Hosted by productivity strategist Mike Vardy, A Productive Conversation offers insightful discussions on how to craft a life that aligns with your intentions. Each episode dives into the art of time devotion, productiveness, and refining your approach to daily living. Mike invites guests who are thinkers, doers, and creators to share their strategies for working smarter and living more intentionally. From practical tips to deep dives on mindset shifts, this podcast will help you reframe your relationship with time and find balance in a busy world.
Subscribe and join the conversation—because a productive life is more than just getting things done.