Join me as we continue to embrace the concept of 'less but better' with my guest Leidy Klotz, an adept professor and the author of "Subtraction." Together, we tackle the transformative power of subtraction and simplification in leading a more meaningful and efficient lifestyle. Discover the significance of questioning the necessity of additions and the pervasive 'more is better' culture. This conversation illuminates the need for open communication and collaboration to let go of non-essential tasks and embrace a culture that values simplicity. We'll reflect on the iconic partnership of Jony Ive and Steve Jobs and the power of saying no to maintain focus on our true priorities. By the end of our discussion, you'll be inspired to consider how subtraction can be integrated into your organizational culture and personal life, fostering continuous growth and a higher point of contribution. Buy Leidy's book. Visit Leidy''s website. Follow Leidy in LinkedIn. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me and behavioral science pioneer Leidy Klotz as we uncover the untapped potential of subtraction in our everyday lives. Listen in as we share personal anecdotes and research that reveal our innate tendency to add rather than remove, despite the clear benefits of simplicity. We tackle the intricacies of simplification, not just in our personal habits but extending into complex systems like legislation and workplace practices. We discuss the challenges of recognizing and celebrating the often invisible work of subtraction, despite its crucial role in achieving elegance and efficiency. The power of simplicity shines through as we examine how master innovators like Anna Keichline and tech titans such as Elon Musk and Steve Jobs have used the art of subtraction to revolutionize industries. From one-click purchasing to hollowed-out bricks, the stories shared in this episode underscore the impact of starting with a 'zero step' mentality. So, if you're looking to refine your approach to problem-solving and innovation, this is your cue to strip away the excess and embrace the elegance of less. Tune in and be inspired to identify areas in your life ripe for simplification and join us on this journey toward clarity and efficiency. Buy Leidy's book. Visit Leidy''s website. Follow Leidy in LinkedIn. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I interview Dr. Dean Helen Williams, Pepperdine University Graduate School of Education and Psychology. In an upfront and candid conversation, we explore the difference in our experiences as academics, leaders, and human beings. Dean Williams' perspective as a black woman, academic, and leader on everything going on in America, and how to most effectively move forward and make change, is a conversation you will not want to miss. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew and Linda Scott go into detail on their vastly different upbringings, and how their parents and families have molded them into the people they are today. Greg, Drew and Linda discuss how the world can be changed for the better, and the individual steps it takes each person along the way to create an effective and lasting change.  Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week I?m talking with my friend, entrepreneur, and television star Rob Dyrdek. Every time I speak with Rob, I leave with a clearer view of what it takes to get to a completely different level in my life.  The secret Rob has learned that allows him to be so successful is that not all effort is created equal. Rob has carefully designed his life around systems that deliver effortless results today, tomorrow, and forever.  Join us as Rob shares how you can build systems in your life that will allow you to reap residual results.  Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen in as we explore the essence of secure attachment, discussing how it transcends mere communication skills and reduces defensiveness during conflicts. Our dialogue also touches on the societal pressures that shape men's fear of failure and women's fear of isolation, illuminating the strength that comes from sharing our innermost fears and embracing the universality of our emotional needs. With perspectives from tech leaders to Gandhi, we question the cost of our dependence on technology and stress the importance of prioritizing human connections to nurture the very fabric of our society. While our time is limited, the insights gained from our discussion are vast, offering listeners a path to deeper self-discovery and the assertion of personal beliefs and values. Join us as we navigate these complex yet essential facets of our lives, fostering environments that promote self-trust and validation. Buy Sue's book Hold Me Tight. Visit Sue's website. Follow her on Instagram, and YouTube. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us as we unravel the mysteries of love and attachment with the extraordinary Dr. Sue Johnson, a beacon in the field of psychology and the architect of Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). In our enlightening conversation, Dr. Johnson shares her insights on the crucial role of emotional connections and secure attachments for our well-being, taking us on a journey through the pivotal ideas of Dr. John Bowlby and the evolution of the science of love. Dr. Johnson's work shines a light on the misconception that attachment is a weakness, revealing it as the essence of our strength and resilience. We tackle the often misunderstood nature of relationship conflicts, revealing that the heart of many disputes is not the disagreement itself but the underlying emotional disconnection between partners. This episode promises to offer profound insights into how we can enhance our personal health, fortify our relationships, and embrace the untapped potential within our most cherished connections. Buy Sue's book Hold Me Tight. Visit Sue's website. Follow her on Instagram, and YouTube. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen in as we unpack the complex fabric of leadership, where the line between being a genius and a genius maker is explored through the prism of Steve Jobs' iconic tenure. In this Part 2 conversation, we reveal that true innovation lies in substance over style, and that fostering genius is about more than just a harsh leadership style or a signature look. We also shine a light on the accountability of corporate governance, using Theranos' board as a stark example of oversight gone awry. We also take a critical look at technology's double-edged sword, from the transformative power of smartphones to the ethical quandaries presented by AI and potential biases. Join us as we navigate the balance between technological progress and the imperative of maintaining a human touch. Buy Guy's book Think Remarkable. Visit Guy's website. Follow him on Instagram, and LinkedIn. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me for an exhilarating journey with the iconic Guy Kawasaki, whose storied career takes us from the early days at Apple to his influential role at Canva, and as an author who continues to shape the business world. Listen in as we explore the concept of a growth mindset through Guy's eyes, drawing on personal stories from his time with Apple and the opportunities he's seized?or missed?throughout his career. Guy reflects on pivotal moments, like candidly challenging Steve Jobs and the subsequent twists his career took, including the lucrative roles he turned down. The discussion reveals how embracing a growth mindset, as advocated by Carol Dweck, has influenced Guy's decisions and permeates the message of his latest book. It's a revealing look at the balance between seizing chances and the wisdom gleaned from the roads not taken. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that might just change your perspective on success and the potential for growth in every one of us.. Buy Guy's book Think Remarkable. Visit Guy's website. Follow him on Instagram, and LinkedIn. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me for an enlightening conversation with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author, Charles Duhigg, as we unravel the mysteries of supercommunicators and their impact on both personal and professional spheres. Listen in as we consider the innate abilities some individuals possess to connect, persuade, and influence through the power of effective communication, and how the decline in interpersonal communication education has affected our society. The episode brings to light different types of interactions we engage in daily, categorized as helping, hugging, or hearing. We explore research that lays out the traits of a supercommunicator and how simple techniques like using micro questions and matching emotional tones can significantly enhance connection. We delve into the importance of vulnerability and reciprocal sharing in fostering closeness, illustrating how super communicators naturally encourage others to open up, ultimately improving the quality of interactions without making their skills the center of attention. Tune in as we share the belief that anyone can become a supercommunicator by mastering a set of learnable skills, fostering connections that enhance understanding in all facets of life. Buy Charles' books Supercommunicators and The Power of Habit. Visit Charles' website. Follow him on Instagram, and LinkedIn. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen in as Leo Babauta, renowned author, blogger, and creator of Zen Habits, joins us to share his compelling journey from a life weighed down by debt and unhealthy habits to one of simplicity and mindfulness. His story is a powerful demonstration of how changing a single habit can drastically alter the course of our lives. We tackle the often daunting task of breaking and changing habits, examine the captivating design of smartphones and their role as one of today's most addictive objects, and underscore the importance of commitment, emotional investment, and readiness for change. We also delve into the concept of 'urge surfing' and its effectiveness in managing temptations and negative thought patterns, particularly during stressful moments when it's all too easy to revert to old habits. Leo and I discuss practical steps for habit change, from choosing a single focus to understanding the cues that precede unwanted behaviors. Tune in for an enriching dialogue that not only promises personal growth but also empowers you with the confidence to face life's various challenges and design a life of significant value and contribution. Buy Leo's book Essential Zen Habits. Subscribe to his podcast. Visit Leo's website. Follow him on Instagram, and LinkedIn. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me for a thought-provoking journey with the incredible Leo Babauta, a champion of mindfulness and minimalism, as we discuss the transformative practice of slowing down. Listen in as Leo sheds light on the often-overlooked power of simplicity in our hectic lives and how creating mental space within our daily tasks can lead to profound changes. His Zen Habits principles and actionable strategies for habit formation are not only insightful but also equip us with the tools to live more intentionally and find joy in less. Buy Leo's book Essential Zen Habits. Subscribe to his podcast. Visit Leo's website. Follow him on Instagram, and LinkedIn. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me on a thought-provoking journey where we explore the power of choice and the profound tranquility of inner solitude. Drawing from Anne Morrow Lindbergh's timeless reflections in "Gift from the Sea," we ponder the significance of cultivating a personal rhythm in life that allows for creative pauses and the nurturing of vibrant relationships with ourselves and others. Listen in as we discuss the wisdom of finding a peaceful inner space amidst the hectic pace of modern existence. We also reflect on a transformative moment from Stephen Covey's "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," emphasizing the space between stimulus and response where our freedom to choose lies. I share actionable strategies for enhancing mindfulness and making deliberate choices, from keeping a choice journal to employing decision delay techniques. Together, we aim to empower you to take control of your life's narrative, ensuring your decisions resonate with your deepest values and aspirations. Let's engage in this reflective episode to inspire personal growth and the intentional living of our highest contribution. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Erik lost his wife, Aubrie, to cancer. It was a tragic loss that has left a hole in his life and the life of their young daughter as well. But in losing Aubrie, Erik gained something, too: incredible insight into love, connection, and what truly matters. Their love story, defined by deep connection and resilience through adversity, paints a vivid picture of life's most meaningful treasures. Erik details the inspiring spirit of his late wife, a woman who fought through a traumatic childhood and battled cancer with a combative spirit that turned conflicts into intimacy. We delve into their family life, the impact of Aubrey's illness on their relationship, and the powerful lessons learned about love, mortality, and the importance of cherishing every moment. This episode is a heartfelt testament to living a life focused on love, meaningful connections, and the pursuit of joy, leaving you with a renewed perspective on the significance of the paths we choose. Read Erik's powerful and authentic thread on X. Follow Erik on X. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me as I continue my enriching conversation with Mo Gawdat, the former chief business officer at Google X and author of the international best-seller, "Solve for Happy." In this part 2 conversation, we unravel the complexities of human connections in our increasingly digital world. We question the true issues within our relationships, touch upon the concept of essentialism, and dissect the current epidemic of loneliness and the fallacy that online connections can suffice for the authenticity of in-person bonds. We also explore the concept of residual results in endeavors like podcasting, where persistence is key to long-term success. I share insights into the rewarding nature of creating content that resonates and helps others. We conclude by emphasizing the '1000X' approach, aiming to amplify our message through the power of our followers rather than chasing financial gain. Our conversation serves as a reminder of the exponential impact we can achieve by focusing on what truly matters and building systems that provide continuous benefits. Follow Mo on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Visit Mo's website. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me as I embark on a thoughtful journey with the remarkable Mo Gawdat, former Google X executive and the driving force behind 'Solve for Happy.' Together, we explore the intertwining paths of essentialism, the pursuit of happiness, and celebrating the concept of 'less but better.' Our conversation takes us through personal narratives of simplifying life and the lasting impact of word-of-mouth for the books that truly resonate with us. Listen in as we examine the emotional depth of attachment and the art of decluttering, with anecdotes from my own life and the universal challenge of the endowment effect. We dissect the invisible decision-making criteria that shape our lives, advocating for a '90% rule' that focuses on what's genuinely important. As we wrap up Part 1, we underscore the critical role of emotional connections, emphasizing the need for mutual reliance and the 'thousand-ex relationship.' Take a moment after listening to think about the insights that resonated with you and consider the actions you can take to strengthen your bonds and perpetuate the cycle of connection. Follow Mo on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X. Visit Mo's website. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Allen, author of Getting Things Done, discusses the practical ways and key specifics to immediately begin the journey of cutting out what is non-essential, both personally and professionally. We go back and forth on the deeper and visionary elements of why it?s beneficial to focus on doing what matters most. Follow David on LinkedIn Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me for a captivating journey with Brian Murphy, the visionary behind ReliaQuest, as we unravel the transformation from a meticulous auditor to a bold IT consulting entrepreneur. Listen in as Brian shares the defining moments and crucial conversations that sparked his leap into the entrepreneurial realm. We explore the essence of foundational business principles and the impact of personal connections in the business world. We also navigate through the stormy period of the Great Recession, where Brian's then-nascent IT firm faced the daunting prospect of disappearing projects and a staggering loss in accounts receivable. Hear about the strategic maneuver towards a government military contract that not only kept the company afloat but also paved the way for their growth into the cybersecurity sector. Brian underscores the courage required to shift strategies, the art of listening beyond what is said, and the framework for effective problem-solving that has been integral to his success. As we reflect on the Innovator's Dilemma and the continuous challenge of adapting to customer needs, I invite you to embrace the entrepreneurial spirit and apply these insights to your own pursuits. Let this episode be the catalyst for your own innovation and growth as you think, create, and evolve within your organization. Follow Brian on LinkedIn. Visit the Reliaquest website. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me as I uncover the surprising power of weak ties, a concept coined by sociologist Mark S. Granovetter, which plays a pivotal role in our lives more than we ever imagined. Listen in as I discuss Granovetter's groundbreaking findings on the importance of casual acquaintances in job searches and the immense influence of weak ties in the digital age. I share my own experiences with unconventional networking, like speed meeting events, and how these can dramatically foster new connections and opportunities. Discover the benefits of stepping out of your comfort zone to engage with a broad range of individuals, thereby harnessing the strength of weak ties. I challenge you to take the most impactful takeaway from our discussion, apply it immediately, and pass on the knowledge to someone who might just find that edge they've been looking for in those uncharted connections. Don't miss out on this insightful exploration of how every interaction, no matter how superficial it may seem, can significantly shape our professional and personal journeys. Research on Minimal Social Interactions Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me as I welcome the remarkable Brian Murphy, the founder and CEO of cybersecurity giant Reliaquest, to share his inspiring story of entrepreneurship. Listen in as Brian takes us back to his formative years, from his blue-collar roots to the pivotal moments that shaped his future. We laugh about his childhood mishaps and marvel at how a mobile library and a curious mind led him to his first business book at the tender age of thirteen. In this episode, we explore the profound influence of a strong work ethic and the benefits of being the youngest sibling. He emphasizes the importance of effective communication, recounting how a college class and techniques like "feel, felt, found" shaped his approach to both business and personal interactions. This conversation highlights the invaluable role of mentorship and the life-altering impact of books, as Brian reflects on how "Rich Dad Poor Dad" transformed his outlook on life. Our discussion touches on the confidence that comes from knowledge and the power of doing simple things "savagely well." As Brian's journey unfolds, it's clear that success in entrepreneurship is anything but linear. Tune in to learn from Brian's experiences and the principles that have guided him to the pinnacle of the tech industry. Follow Brian on LinkedIn. Visit the Reliaquest website. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us for part 2 of my conversation with Jennie Allen as we unpack the complexities of our emotional responses and their surprising intensities. This conversation peels back the layers of our emotions, tracing them to their roots, and reveals how past experiences, like childhood fears and moments of crisis, can shape our present feelings. Listen in as Jeannie bravely navigates her history of fear and loneliness, illustrating the transformative journey of emotional untangling. The heart of human connection and the pain of potential loss are at the forefront of our discussion in this touching chapter. I open up about the tumultuous emotions I faced upon my best friend's cancer diagnosis, and the stark fear of losing a friendship that has been a cornerstone of my life. We examine the concept of safe attachment, where being heard equates to survival?a need as vital in our formative years as it is in our adult interactions. Finally, we delve into the significance of confronting deep-seated fears and the concept of 'primal panic' with Jennie, who offers her expertise on the subject. Our discussion shines a light on the importance of emotional intelligence and personal growth, and the power of empathy in the healing process. Engage with our heartfelt exchange, as we celebrate the courage it takes to untangle complex emotions, and consider how this understanding can profoundly impact our lives. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with your own emotional journey and perhaps find solace and inspiration in ours. Buy her book "Get Out of Your Head." Follow Jennie on LinkedIn, Instagram. Check out Jennie's website. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join us on this enlightening journey with the remarkable Jennie Allen, a spiritual trailblazer and best-selling author who returns to share her insights on emotional intelligence, the power of connection, and the art of living with intention. Listen in as Jennie opens up about her first encounter with loss, the intertwining of emotions with life's most vivid experiences, and how her book "Get Out of Your Head" has sparked transformative conversations about mental wellness and spiritual growth. We explore the intricate tapestry of family dynamics, acknowledging the generational impact of trauma and the importance of humility in healing. As we reminisce about personal stories and reflect on the strength of relationships, we recognize the ongoing effort required to foster nurturing family environments. Discover the beauty of creating a legacy that transcends our lifetimes, and be inspired by tales of overcoming adversity and finding joy amidst life's struggles. Buy her book "Get Out of Your Head." Follow Jennie on LinkedIn, Instagram. Check out Jennie's website. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me as we ponder the turning of the calendar to 2024, a time for introspection and goal-setting. But this year, we're taking a different approach, asking not just 'what' but 'who' is important in our lives. I discuss the profound shift from a task-driven to a people-centric perspective, exploring how this reorientation affects leadership, team management, and personal relationships. Leadership and virtual team performance: A meta-analytic investigation Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Performance physiologist and wellness advocate Greg Wells, Ph.D. (author, Rest Refocus Recharge) shares his insights on the importance of proper rest to achieve optimal performance. Dr. Wells and Greg discuss finding the dynamic balance between work and relaxation, and the mindset shift that rest is both a skill and a responsibility. They explore practical techniques that can be developed and applied to all aspects of a healthier life. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If your life is anything like mine, you probably have far more problems than you can solve in one day. It?s easy to become overwhelmed. When this happens, it is often our most important relationships that suffer. But the good news is there is a solution. Taking just a few moments to celebrate small wins, especially with those that matter most, can change the equation in your favor.  In this episode, my wife Anna and I explore concrete ways you can reinforce good behavior at home, avoiding the temptation only to see what someone is doing wrong, and how to use microbursts of effort to improve your relationships. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It?s not only important to identify what?s essential in your life, but you must also know why it matters. Join me as I speak with Simon Sinek, Inspirational Speaker and Global "Best Selling" Author (Leaders Eat Last, Together is Better, Find Your Why and The Infinite Game) , In this episode, Simon shares: The importance of finding your "why" How to find the courage to reinvent yourself How to define yourself by what you believe, not only by what you do Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever wondered why we can't fix burnout culture with a wellness app? What if doing less was actually more effective than giving it 100%? Today I'm going to share an inspiring story, something counterintuitive I've learned and provide some actionable advice. By the end of this episode, you will be able to accomplish more by putting in less effort. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me as I continue my fascinating conversation with Yale professor Samuel Wilkinson, author of the thought-provoking book "Purpose: What Evolution and Human Nature Imply About the Meaning of Our Existence." Listen in as we tackle the intriguing topic of altruism in the evolutionary narrative, debunking the myth that survival hinges solely on selfishness. The significance of relationships and family takes center stage in our discussion as we share insights into how these bonds form the bedrock of happiness and meaning in our lives. Explore findings from the Harvard Adult Development Study that showcase the undeniable link between well-being and warm, supportive connections. The conversation doesn't shy away from the hard truths either, addressing the impact of detachment in early life and the innate human craving for closeness. We also dissect the psychological and evolutionary drivers that make personal relationships a central pillar of our contentment. Learn about the role of affective forecasting in our lives, highlighting our tendency to misjudge what will bring us true happiness, and the constant balancing act required to nurture our most cherished connections. We delve into the dual nature of humans?capable of both selfish and altruistic behaviors?and how the success of partnerships and family life often hinges on the willingness to put collective needs above individual desires. Samuel Wilkinson is Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the Yale School of Medicine, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Yale Depression Research Program. Dr. Wilkinson received his B.S. in mechanical engineering, summa cum laude, from Brigham Young University and later his medical degree from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. He completed his residency at Yale, where he joined the faculty following his post-graduate medical training. His primary research has focused on depression and suicide prevention and has been funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, the National Institute of Drug Abuse, the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Buy Samuel's book Purpose. Learn more about Samuel's work here. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me as I explore the transformative power of building deep, meaningful connections in our lives, especially poignant in an age where superficial online interactions are often mistaken for genuine relationships. I reflect on Erik Newton's heartfelt Twitter story about the profound love he shared with his late wife, revealing the timeless truth that at life's end, it's the depth of our relationships that truly matters. This touching narrative serves as a profound reminder of the importance of fostering and nurturing our most significant relationships, and how they shape the legacy of love we leave behind. I also discuss the insights of early psychologists and the groundbreaking work of British psychiatrist John Bowlby, who pioneered the concept of attachment theory. The historical journey from the 18th century to Bowlby's 20th-century research, including the Strange Situation experiment and Harry Harlow's primate studies, illuminates the critical need for emotional connections in our development. This conversation underscores the essential nature of these bonds for our psychological well-being, urging us to prioritize and deepen our connections with those who are important to us. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When medical student turned author, Samuel Wilkinson, challenged the common misconception of evolution suggesting a purposeless existence, it sparked a profound conversation that I am thrilled to share with you. This episode takes us through the riveting terrain of evolutionary biology. We delve into the phenomenon of convergent evolution, our conversations meandering down the fascinating lanes of how birds, bats, and butterflies have independently developed the ability to fly and how dolphins and sharks share a streamlined body shape. As we unpack the mysteries around the evolution of the eye, we encounter the intriguing pattern and order that seem to guide these evolutionary processes - an order that's akin to invisible forces directing a compass. We also navigate the intriguing intersection of randomness and order in evolution. Drawing from everyday examples, we question the belief that all is driven by randomness. We reflect on how random mutations can still result in a pattern and the importance of duality in principles. Moreover, we contemplate the implications of this perspective on our lives and relationships. You wouldn't want to miss this thought-provoking exploration, where we invite you to challenge your assumptions, unravel the intricacies of evolution, and perhaps, discover a deeper meaning in your existence. Samuel Wilkinson is Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the Yale School of Medicine, where he also serves as Associate Director of the Yale Depression Research Program. Dr. Wilkinson received his B.S. in mechanical engineering, summa cum laude, from Brigham Young University and later his medical degree from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. He completed his residency at Yale, where he joined the faculty following his post-graduate medical training. His primary research has focused on depression and suicide prevention and has been funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, the National Institute of Drug Abuse, the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Buy Samuel's book Purpose. Learn more about Samuel's work here. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me on the journey to enrich your relationships, focusing on quality rather than quantity. In this episode I explore the significance of cultivating deep, meaningful relationships in a world dominated by superficial connections. Drawing on an analogy from the Hubble Space Telescope, I demonstrate how minor adjustments in perspective can bring clarity to our relationships, similar to how small calibrations on the telescope can bring the vastness of space into focus. In our quest for meaningful connections, I examine the contrasting approaches of essentialists and non-essentialists towards relationships. I observe how essentialists prioritize deeper relationships with fewer, but vital, people, while non-essentialists often get overwhelmed by their packed schedules. I introduce the concept of a 'relationship scorecard' to help you assess the quality and depth of your relationships, suggesting that you regularly touch base and make small adjustments to sustain healthy relationships. I conclude this episode with a reminder not to wait until your relationship is on the rocks to seek feedback and make necessary adjustments. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In Part 2 of our conversation with Shane Parrish, founder of Farnam Street and author of "Clear Thinking," you'll discover techniques that will help you think clearly and make better decisions. Shane walks us through his inspiring journey, from his initial days working for an intelligence agency to his exploration into the power of clear thinking. He shares captivating insights about his commitment to the dissemination of knowledge and the creation of The Knowledge Project. Shifting gears, we discuss recent developments in the AI world, such as Sam Altman's surprising departure from Open AI and his new role at Microsoft. We ponder over the capricious nature of the tech landscape and the imperative need for adaptability. The conversation leads us to explore the concept of positioning and its impact on various life aspects. Learn more from Shane here. Listen to Shane's podcast The Knowledge Project. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever stopped to consider the depth of your connections in a world where the number of friends you have on social media platforms seems to have taken precedence? Join me as we navigate the waters of meaningful relationships, stressing the importance of quality over quantity. Our journey takes us through the paradox of loneliness and time spent alone, and how these two aren't necessarily joined at the hip. Ever given thought to the role technology plays in shaping our social lives? It's a double-edged sword, on one hand allowing us to connect with friends and family across the globe, yet on the other, resulting in fewer face-to-face interactions and more superficial connections. The conversation segues into the pitfalls of online echo chambers, the effects of social media on our perception of relationships, and the impact of non-essentialism on our relationships. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join me for an enriching conversation with Shane Parrish, the brain behind Farnam Street and author of "Clear Thinking". Hear his remarkable story of resilience and continuous learning, inspired by the true crime book "The Stopwatch Gang", and how he challenges us to think deeper, question biases, and embrace the complexities of the world through. We also discuss insights from Shane's former career as an intelligence agency employee, who served the Canadian equivalent of NSA. Experience the intensity and pressure of working in the intelligence world, their sense of patriotism, and the sacrifices that came with their job. His insights on the concept of positioning and its role in building lasting relationships is something not to be missed. Learn more from Shane here. Listen to Shane's podcast The Knowledge Project. Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to part two of my conversation with Dr. Shah. Dr. Shah is the president of the Rockefeller Foundation. Previously to that he was responsible for USAID, including being on the very front lines of the response to the ebola crisis. Now, you may never have heard of Dr. Shah before. You may not have followed the story especially closely, but you can be absolutely sure that the work that he and others around him did prevented an unbelievably dire situation from happening around the world. As is often the case, we don't always remember the people that prevent problems. That's part of the problem. That's the disincentive, but in this episode, we get to celebrate somebody who did, and whatever our political persuasions happened to be, we can be grateful that people like Dr. Shah have stepped up to contribute in their way so that we can contribute in our way. Learn more from Dr. Shah here: https://www.rockefellerfoundation.org/big-bets/ Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, I explore the hidden trap of negative leverage and how it silently drains our resources and energy. I promise that you'll walk away from this episode with a deeper understanding of negative leverage and equipped with the tools to eliminate its presence in your life. By taking immediate action and avoiding unnecessary trade-offs, you'll find yourself investing more in what truly matters. After all, making negative leverage visible is the first step towards an improved life.  Join my weekly newsletter. Learn more about my books and courses. Join The Essentialism Academy. Follow me on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, Facebook, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever wanted to make a higher contribution, a big impact in the world, but felt perhaps a little hopeless about it all? In today's episode, which is part one of a two-part interview, we're welcoming Dr. Rajiv Shah, who is the president of the Rockefeller Foundation. This is a global institution that has a mission to promote the wellbeing of humanity around the world, but even before that, a rather young looking Dr. Shah was also the USAID administrator where he was responsible for leading and reshaping the 20 billion dollar agency that has operations in 70 countries around the world to develop even stronger results. Dr. Shah is also the author of a new book, Big Bets: How Large-Scale Change Really Happens. By the end of this episode, you will better understand the journey that Rajiv went on in order to be able to make this higher contribution. Learn more from Dr. Shah here: https://www.rockefellerfoundation.org/big-bets/ Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many of us have been told that if we are good at making decisions, we're good at everything, but this is wrong. What we know now is that making the right one-time decisions is the real game changer. In part four of this series on 10X leverage, you will learn why and then how to be able to make one-time decisions that can change your life. Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to part two of my conversation with Eduardo Briceño. Eduardo is among other things, the author of The Performance Paradox. It's all about turning the power of mindset into action. If you've ever heard of or been impacted by the growth mindset from Carol Dweck, then this book from Eduardo is about how you can take those ideas and really implement them. By the end of this episode, you'll be able to lead yourself and others to constantly improve and outperform your targets. Learn more about Eduardo here: https://briceno.com/ Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many of us have heard that knowledge is power, but I think that's wrong. What has the most value is unique knowledge. The key is knowing what no one else knows. By the end of this episode, you'll be able to understand not just why, but how to create the unique knowledge that can produce extraordinary residual results for you in your life. Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Over the years one of the things I have learned is that if we only focus on performing, our performance suffers. That idea is not new to me, but that precise language is from Eduardo Briceño. He's our guest today in part one of a two part interview. Before Eduardo became an author, a TED speaker, a thought leader in his own rights, his life was totally changed, as was mine by the research of Carol Dweck. Carol Dweck is currently a professor at Stanford and formerly of Columbia, who is best known for the Growth Mindset, that idea that intelligence itself is not fixed, that it can grow, that we can become more intelligent after years of helping to take those ideas out into the world, out into organizations. Eduardo is on his own journey and it's a journey that he's inviting us to go on. By the end of today's episode, you will be able to grow your skill level and your output simultaneously and for the long term. Learn more about Eduardo here: https://briceno.com/ Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever wanted to make a higher contribution in your life to be able to get better results, even 10X results, but at the same time you already feel like you're running out of space, stretched too thin, a little exhausted, or more than a little exhausted? Well, that's what this series is. This is part two in a series about how to use leverage to achieve 10X results without burning out. In the solo episode last week, I introduced this theme and I asked you to be able to pay attention to all the forms of leverage that you see, physical and metaphorical, across all of your life. By the end of today's episode, we'll dig deeply into one form of leverage so that you can use this lever to be able to take modest input but produce residual results that is results that come back to you again and again.  Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this part two of my interview with Rich Horwath, we dig into how Rich spent years providing strategic planning, coaching, advising, running sessions with corporations and executive teams. But as he was providing executive coaching to one of his clients, they said, "Well, listen, my bosses said I need to be more strategic, but what does it mean?" And that was the beginning of a whole new phase of Rich's life and his career as he started to think, well, really, what does it mean and how can we apply some of these tools and frameworks that have become so useful in the enterprise space and the business environment to help people in their lives? By the end of this episode, you'll have a better insight in not only how to be successful in the life of business, but also in the business of life. Learn more about Rich here: https://www.strategyskills.com/about/about-rich-horwath/ Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever been trapped by reactively doing things that just get results one time today? That just get you through the immediate, urgent needs of your life and don't seem to be able to get you ahead? I know I have, and for a lot of people, they really feel that this is the best that they can do, but we have learned by experience that there's a much, much better way than this: to shift between linear thinking and residual thinking, between linear results and residual results. This is part one of a five part series focused specifically on how you can achieve 10X results, however you want to measure that, but without burning out. This is loosely based on the last five chapters of Effortless, so if you have your copy, you can use that to be able to do further reading, and if you haven't got your copy yet, now is the time to begin. By the end of this episode, you will have learned the first lever that you can use to be able to break through to that next level, but without burning out. Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever felt an intuitive insight pull you towards a particular direction? Have you ever had an experience that you knew was right even though you didn't yet have evidence to support it? Well, today is part one in a two part series with Rich Horwath. Rich is the founder and CEO of the Strategic Thinking Institute where he serves leadership teams as a strategy workshop facilitator, executive coach, and strategic advisor. By the end of this episode, you'll have the tools to figure out what you do well, and what you can stop doing in order to be more effective. Learn more about Rich here: https://www.strategyskills.com/about/about-rich-horwath/ Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is part four in a multi-part series about the relentless elimination of noise. Have you noticed that the noise is increasing everywhere? Have you felt that ridiculous increase of volume, the number of voices telling you what to do, what to worry about, what your life should be, could be, has to be, shouldn't have been? Have you noticed that the more you listen to all of those incessant, loud, persuasive voices out there, the less able you are to listen to the voices of the people closest to you, the people who in fact matter most to you, including listening to the voice within you. By the end of this episode, you'll have a concrete rule and tools for how to increase the volume of that voice within and decrease or eliminate those voices, all that noise, that is without. Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is part two of my conversation with Dr. Mauro Guillén, a Spanish-American sociologist, political economist, and management educator. I know him because he is the former dean of the Cambridge Business School. He's also a fellow at Queens College, so we share that in common too. He has built a series of research helping us look at those great trends, how they'll collide, and how they'll reshape the future of everything so that we can zoom out to get that perspective in order to zoom in and make tradeoffs that allow us to design a life that really matters. Learn more from Mauro here: https://www.queens.cam.ac.uk/professor-mauro-f-guillen Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is part three in a multi-part series about the relentless elimination of noise. Have you noticed the change in the level of noise in your life? Do you feel that you might be drowning in it because it's everywhere around you? Is it possible that it has affected, and perhaps quite a serious way, the quality of the most important relationships in your life, both personally and professionally? For years we've been aware and we've been talking about and writing about the impact of these distractions, of this noise on our productivity, but this is not its most important impact. Its most important impact is not to what we get done, but what this has done to our relationships. By the end of this episode, you'll be armed with additional tactics and strategies you can use right now to eliminate the noise so that you can have more meaningful conversations and connections with the people who matter most. Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is part one of my conversation with Dr. Mauro Guillén, a Spanish-American sociologist, political economist, and management educator. I know him because he is the former dean of the Cambridge Business School. He's also a fellow at Queens College, so we share that in common too. He has built a series of research helping us look at those great trends, how they'll collide, and how they'll reshape the future of everything so that we can zoom out to get that perspective in order to zoom in and make tradeoffs that allow us to design a life that really matters. Learn more from Mauro here: https://www.queens.cam.ac.uk/professor-mauro-f-guillen Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When was the last time that you were having a conversation with someone only to look up and find that they weren't listening at all? Instead, they've been pulled into one of their devices. What did you feel in that moment? Was it mildly irritating or did it trigger something deeper, something beyond mere frustration? Many of us think of this moment as being trivial, whether it's happened to us or whether we've done it to somebody else, but this is wrong. What we know now is that the need to be understood, to be seen, to be known is so jugular that even these small errors in communication between people can significantly impact both the quality of those relationships, but also the quality of our own lives. This is part two of a multi-part series about the relentless elimination of noise. By the end of this episode, you will be better able to eliminate the noise in your conversations. Join my weekly newsletter at GregMcKeown.com/1mw Learn more about my books and courses at GregMcKeown.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices