How I Work

It’s 3pm and Nicky Sparshott is ducking out of the office to go watch her kids perform at their school’s exhibition. Sweet, right? But shouldn’t it be impossible? Nicky’s the CEO of Unilever Australia & New Zealand, and at the time of recording, was also the global CEO of T2 - how can she possibly have time in the middle of the work day for a school show? Well, it’s the positive side she’s discovered in having an absolutely hectic work schedule. As a global CEO, she’s sometimes on virtual meetings in the middle of the night to talk to teams on the other side of the world. But, if she’s going to be working from seven to eleven at night, then she can definitely carve out some time in the arvo for her family. So, how does she keep it all from toppling over? How does she keep her schedule in order when she sometimes needs to work while everyone else is asleep? Colours. Yep. Nicky colour-codes her calendar so that she can see at a glance exactly what kind of work she’ll be doing for the next few days. Not only does it keep her organised, but it gives her a clear picture of how much deep versus shallow work she’s getting in. Nicky also teaches you why “deep work” doesn’t always have to be done alone. Connect with Nicky on LinkedinYou can find the full interview here: Analogue productivity in a digital age with Unilever CEO Nicky Sparshott If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a short monthly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co Visit https://www.amanthaimber.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You know what it’s like when you move house - you’re tripping over boxes for weeks, eating takeout on the floor while you wait for that new dining table to arrive, and lamenting that the rest of the world - including work - doesn’t take a pause while you get your life in order. We’ve all been there, but have you ever used that moment of chaos as the trigger to start writing a book? It sounds insane - and as someone who’s been working on a new book for some time now, I feel certified to call it that - but for economist and Wharton professor Katy Milkman, it made perfect sense. Katy’s learned to take advantage of “fresh starts,” which can be anything from New Year’s Day to a relocation - or even just any old Monday. She breaks down the most effective ways to change your behaviour for the better, whether that’s to break bad habits or form new ones. And it’s all backed by science. Connect with Katy on Twitter or Linkedin and get a copy of How to Change.Visit amanthaimber.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] you are looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a short monthly newsletter that contains three cool things that I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You wouldn’t think of roasting a chicken as a poignant metaphor for life, but when Maggie Beer talks cooking, you get words to live by. Starting with sourcing the perfect chicken, Maggie teaches you why it’s so important to do a little research before you buy anything, and from there, gives you a step-by-step walkthrough on the whole process. Yep, you’re getting a free masterclass from the master herself. And a damn good dinner, too. Connect with Maggie on Twitter or InstagramYou can find the full interview here: Maggie Beer on why mastering the basics is the best way to up your gameSubscribe to my new podcast How To Date in Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a short monthly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amanthaimber.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If anything immediately strikes me as a pretty bad idea, it’s an adult learning to ride a skateboard. Without the years of experience built up over a childhood spent cruising on the asphalt, stepping on a skateboard almost promises to put you on your butt. And as an adult, a skateboarding injury could have a pretty disastrous effect on your daily life. Kids bounce back pretty easily, but I know if I had to miss six weeks of workouts or couldn’t write or type for a few months, I’d be in strife. So why is Jordan Calhoun, editor-in-chief of Lifehacker, trying to pick up the skill now? Jordan might not be looking to get massive air with Tony Hawk, but he is looking for that childhood experience of newness. Not being able to do something, starting from zero, is a pretty rare situation for adults, and Jordan thinks that’s a shame. So he’s learning to shred. Jordan shares a wealth of other insights on learning, such as why he prioritises stories over stats and facts, and how the Goodreads website helps him read more books. He also, naturally, shares a treasure trove of life hacks, like his decision-making matrix and tools for building accountability into his most ambitious goals. Connect with Jordan on Twitter, Instagram, at Lifehacker or on his website.***Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberEpisode Producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Running late is… stressful. You worry that you’re going to get in trouble, let someone down or miss something important. Your heart rate rises, adrenaline courses through your body - and then someone wants to get in front of you on the road. Oh. My. God. But what if it wasn’t stressful? Sounds too good to be true, right? What if it’s all in your head? Meshel Laurie, a podcaster and author, believes it is all in your head, and that - actually - that’s a good thing. Because if it’s in your head, it’s in your control. Since becoming a Buddhist, Meshel has begun practising simple little mental reframes like this one every day, and she’s much happier, kinder and calmer for it. She teaches you how letting others go first, whenever you can, trains your mind to relax and set the right intention for your day, every day. Connect with Meshel on Instagram and LinkedInYou can find the full interview here: Win friends and stop trying to be an influencer with Meshel Laurie***Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life Admin. That phrase probably makes you nervous - I know it does for me. It makes me think about all the stuff I have to keep on top of: I need to remember to pay my car rego, to RSVP to that parent-teacher conference, and to book my next doctor’s appointment. But when you think about all the things you have to get done at the office in 2022, you’re probably pretty confident, right? There’s heaps to do, but you’re a professional! You have systems and processes in place to make sure you don’t forget anything important, to make sure you’re consistently progressing towards your goals for the year. So why don’t we take the same approach when it comes to our goals and responsibilities and home? Well, Mia Northrop and Dinah Rowe-Roberts, the authors of Life Admin Hacks, do exactly that! Mia and Dinah mobilise their years of experience in senior strategy, commercial, digital and customer experience to tackle life admins with the skills they’ve picked up in their professional careers. They teach you everything from how to decide whether something goes on a to-do list or not, to why you should be sending audio messages instead of emails and texts. Connect with Mia and Dinah on their website and pick up a copy of their book, Life Admin Hacks***Sign up for the Time Wise Challenge. Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberEpisode Producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberCover Photographer: Sister Scout StudioSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re a bit of a productivity buff, you probably have some clever hacks for reducing time spent reading or sending emails. Maybe you use Superhuman, like I do, or maybe you’re a big proponent of Inbox Zero. Either way, you’re probably not looking for, say, a How I Work episode that suggests you spend more time on email! But this is different… The goal of true productivity, after all, is to get more meaningful work done in less time. So, what if using some work tools at home could enable you to make more intelligent decisions in less time? That’s exactly what Emily Oster, her partner, and sometimes even her kids do when they send each other emails. Expectations are usually clearer in writing than in spoken conversation, you can choose exactly when you want to respond to or think about a particular issue, and of course - the dinner table is out of the question when it comes to certain conversations about the kids!Learn how an economist uses what she’s learned at work to make life easier and more productive at home. Connect with Emily on Twitter or Instagram. And pick up her latest book, The Family Firm.You can find the full interview here: Economist Emily Oster on how to make better decisions at work and in life***Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes you have to put yourself on the line to test your assumptions. How better to know if something will work for you than to do it yourself? Michael Mosley takes this one step further than your average person, though… Like when he willingly infested his body with worms. Seriously. TV producer, presenter, journalist, author and former doctor Michael Mosley has done all manner of weird and wonderful self-experiments in the name of science - mainly so you don’t have to!He gives his top tips for improving your health and fitness, and in the process debunks some of the most pernicious myths about our bodies. He also gives you a framework for understanding the research and recommendations that are already out there so you can make the right decision for your own circumstances and needs.Michael covers everything from coffee to weight loss in this all-encompassing health discussion. Connect with Michael on Twitter, Instagram and on his website. ***Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberEpisode Producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You and I are finite beings, my friend. That’s a pretty abstract concept until you think about just how much stuff we need to get done every day. Oliver Burkeman, a journalist and author, says the amount of things we could potentially do every day is, by definition, infinite. And a finite being with an infinitely long to-do list is not a happy being. This causes most of us to start our days feeling like we’re in “productivity debt”, and our to-do list is our ticket back to zero, back to a clean balance sheet. But according to Oliver, this is really a ticket to misery. Instead, he wants you to reframe, and start your day at zero. You don’t have to be productive or get certain things done to justify your existence. Everything you manage to get done on any given day, really, is a bonus! Oliver shares how keeping a “Done List” has helped him turn this mental reframe into an everyday reality, and I recommend my favourite calendar tool as an extra tool.Connect with Oliver on Twitter and on his website. And pick up a copy of his book, Four Thousand Weeks You can find the full interview here: Get your priorities straight with Oliver Burkeman***Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’ve tried it all. You’ve joined the 5AM club, done the morning HIIT workouts, tried the pomodoro technique, downloaded Headspace and worked at a standing desk. But… you haven’t quite figured it out yet. Lisa Leong, host of the hit ABC radio show, This Working Life, says that’s the point. Every day is “lab day”, and the experimenting should never end. Lisa’s job is to examine… well, jobs. She’s on a mission to understand the modern working world and how we can all make our working lives more effective and fulfilling. Sometimes this means changing little things, like what time we get to the office or which morning routines give us the most energy. Sometimes it’s the big things, like figuring out how to advance your career, or even knowing when it’s time to change industries. Lisa teaches you how to determine your own values and apply them to work, and explains why the term “work-life balance” needs to be replaced with something a bit more meaningful. Connect with Lisa on Twitter, Instagram or LinkedIn Grab a copy of This Working Life here ***Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberEpisode Producer: Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s 3:30 in the afternoon and you’re pumping Red Bulls. You’ve just had a long, very cerebral meeting, and now you’ve gotta back it up with some pretty intellectually demanding writing work. But you’re exhausted. Holly Ransom, Fulbright Scholar and author of The Leading Edge, wants you to find a different way to perk up when you’re running low on energy. The Red Bulls, the half-litre cups of coffee and the sugary snacks might feel like they’re working, but they’re really just numbing the signals your body is trying to send you. So how do you manage your energy naturally? The first step is to perform an energy audit - you need a realistic understanding of when you’re at your peak each day, and when you’re not: because nobody can operate at full bore all day, every day. Knowing when she’s at her best each day has changed the way Holly plans her work days, and even her weeks. She shares how she audits her energy, the ways she perks up when she’s feeling drained, and how she “switches off” at the end of the work week so she can fully rest and recharge over the weekend. Connect with Holly on Twitter, Instagram or LinkedinYou can find the full interview here: The maths of mentoring: Holly Ransom on the equation of getting help by giving it ***Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**BEST OF 2021**Before you click ‘add’ on another vaguely familiar face on LinkedIn - not so fast! But the larger your social or professional network, the larger your influence, right?Organisational psychologist Marissa King says… not always.A professor of organisational behaviour at the Yale School of Management, Marissa has studied social networks, social influence and team dynamics for the past fifteen years. She’s developed a deep understanding of how they evolve and why it’s so important to make sure your existing contacts feel the love before you rack up new ones.She also shares her routine for reinvigorating her network and how to reconnect with people you might not have spoken to for years.Read Marissa’s latest book, Social Chemistry: Decoding the Patterns of Human ConnectionConnect with Marissa on Twitter, Linkedin or through her website. Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**BEST OF 2021**What’s the best advice you’ve ever received? A great piece of advice can be life changing. It can set you on a whole new trajectory, land you a new job, or even prompt you to make a big career change.Group Managing Director of Coca-Cola Amatil, and self-described overachiever Alison Watkins shares how to make sure the advice you receive is right for you. Global leader in innovation Scott D Anthony wants you to flirt with possible career moves through advice and curiosity. Organisational psychologist Adam Grant outlines the benefits of scheduling a regular life check-up for yourself.Wendy Stops, non-executive director on the board of Commonwealth Bank of Australia, shares the best piece of advice she’s ever been given. While good advice is helpful, it’s also worth noting that there is plenty of bad advice going around. For Kendra Banks, Managing Director of SEEK, this came in the form of parenting and career advice. Listen to the full interviews:Alison WatkinsScott D AnthonyAdam GrantWendy StopsKendra Banks Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**BEST OF 2021**It’s 4:27AM. That’s right. Not 4:25, not 4:30, but exactly 4:27. When you’re a veteran breakfast radio host like Christian O’Connell, you calculate your latest possible wakeup time to the second. Once he’s out the door, it’s a 20 to 30-minute commute, but it’s one he really enjoys. It’s the only time in a pretty hectic workday he has completely to himself. After that, it’s 15 minutes of solitude and total silence in the studio so Christian can focus on the one word that’s going to guide this morning’s show - it could be “gratitude”, it could be “openness”, or it could just be “funny.”Christian has a huge range of tools, tactics and routines in place to make the most of his work days, and they’re based on years of experience, hard work… and hard times. He shares how he’s built those routines, and how he uses other tools like breath work and therapy to overcome his darkest hours.Connect with Christian on Twitter or Linkedin Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**BEST OF 2021**Are you looking for ways to save time?There are plenty of tools out there to help streamline your work processes, but how do you know which ones work best?Find out what websites are causing you too many minutes of distraction, and learn how to batch check your emails rather than becoming a slave to the inbox. Website time tracker Rooster, time calculator Erik Rood, and email client Tempo are the three tools that help me get more out of my week. I’ll explain how I use them and how you can incorporate them into your work week.Tame your email addiction and get your web browsing working for you. Links to tools:RoosterErik RoodYour TempoSuperhumanConnect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**BEST OF 2021**A tip just for you - you’re doing too much, friend.You’re probably conditioned to think the harder you work, the better the results... And you might have even hit burnout once or twice along the way. Leadership and business strategist Greg McKeown wants you to fight against that conditioning. Instead of wondering “How can I work harder to get more done?”, Greg wants you to ask yourself “How can I make this easier AND get the best results?”.But can you genuinely take fewer steps and still get to the same destination? Greg shares his simple strategies for working effortlessly and also helps me out with some tips to get me through my writer’s block. Read Greg’s latest book, Effortless: Make It Easier to Do What Matters Most or listen to his podcast What’s EssentialConnect with Greg through his website, Linkedin or Twitter. Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**BEST OF 2021**Do you want to improve your writing?Writing is one of the fundamental ways we persuade people to take up our ideas, meet with us, or buy the thing we are selling. Want a snappier headline or to make sure you are communicating to the right audience. Want to find those pesky grammatical errors before you send your email? What if you see a nice font you like, but don’t know how to find out which one it is?Text analyser Hemingway, writing assistant Grammarly, headline improver CoSchedule and font finder MyFonts are four writing tools I couldn’t work without. Become a better writer with these four easy-to-use writing tools: Hemingway AppGrammarlyCoSchedule (Headline Analyser)MyFontsConnect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**BEST OF 2021**Gretchen Rubin has dedicated the last ten years to researching and exploring how to be happier.And she’s discovered just how debilitating distraction can be - for both productivity and joy. Gretchen has self-tested every habit under the sun, and shares which practices to incorporate into your workflow to bolster that joy… and crucially, gives insight into which ones don’t work for her.She also shares how we can help our kids create better habits. She’s also created her own Twelve Commandments to help guide her in staying authentically Gretchen.Gretchen’s the host of popular weekly podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, and the author of several books including The Happiness Project, Outer Order Inner Calm, The Four Tendencies, and Happier at Home. Connect with Gretchen on Twitter, Linkedin or through her website Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**BEST OF 2021**I place a huge value on my health. It’s my number one priority. If you’re not healthy, chances are you’re less productive.Using these tools helps me incorporate physical activity into my day, understand my health patterns so I know where I can make improvements, and trains my brain. I use the Apple Smart Rope to count reps when I’m skipping. The rope connects to an app on my phone and lets me know when I have reached my goal. Smart Rope: https://www.apple.com/au/shop/product/HL6M2ZM/A/tangram-factory-smart-rope-led-jump-rope-mediumI use the Whoop band to optimize the way I recover, train, and sleep. It features daily reporting on mobile and desktop apps. Whoop: https://www.whoop.com/ I use the Apple Watch with pedometer++ app to count my steps throughout the day: https://apps.apple.com/au/app/pedometer/id712286167 I can now walk and work on my computer with the Walkingpad Pro Treadmill and Ergodesk Automatic Standing Desk (1500mm): https://www.lifespanfitness.com.au/products/walkingpad%E2%84%A2-pro-treadmill-with-ergodesk-automatic-standing-desk-1500mm I love being mentally active with these great puzzles from Magic Puzzle: https://www.magicpuzzlecompany.com/ Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberVisit amanthaimber.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**BEST OF 2021**Hear me out - what if you stopped trying so hard to be productive? Most of us only get a total of four thousand weeks on this earth. Do you really want to spend them answering emails?Oliver Burkeman is a “recovering productivity geek” and he wants you to make peace with the reality that you'll never get everything done. He says once you’ve accepted that hard truth, you’ll finally be free to focus on what’s truly important.Oliver Burkeman is a journalist and the author of The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can’t Stand Positive Thinking and the forthcoming Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals. He shares why it’s valuable to recognise and wrestle with your limitations head-on, why it’s worth keeping a “Done List,” and gives you permission to decline to clear the decks. Connect with Oliver on Twitter or via his website. Get a copy of Oliver’s book 4000 weeks. Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**BEST OF 2021**‘Should’ is one of the most problematic words when it comes to self-talk. I should go to the gym. I should accept this event invitation. I should call this friend and see how she's going, I should spend less time on social media.Shoulds are very unhelpful. They have the double whammy of making us feel guilty AND they don’t actually help us change our behaviour.I’m going to give you two alternative words or phrases to replace the shoulds in your life.This will help you make better choices and also create positive changes in your life. Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**BEST OF 2021**Do you hate email? Are you sick of being a slave to your inbox? Are you like the “average” knowledge worker and check your email or chat messages every six minutes? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, I think you will love today’s show.Cal Newport is a Computer Science Professor at Georgetown University and also the bestselling author of Deep Work, Digital Minimalism, and most recently, A World Without Email. And Cal has been thinking a lot about how to overcome what he calls the “hyperactive hive mind”.In this chat, we talk about practical strategies to dramatically reduce the amount of unscheduled communication (i.e. email) you receive, both as an individual, but also as an entire organisation.Connect with Cal at calnewport.comGrab a copy of A World Without EmailListen to the Deep Questions podcastConnect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

**BEST OF 2021**How are you coping with this whole global pandemic thing? I feel like I'm more reliant on my devices than ever before - it's like a window to the outside world. But I have a feeling that checking ABC news 10 times a day isn't very good for my mental health. So in today's show, I have an alternative to share.Try out Amantha's favourite calendar software here: usemotion.ioCheck out Lisa Leong's ABC podcast This Working Life.Connect with Lisa Leong on LinkedinConnect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Even after a long day at work, or at the end of a tough week, when you pop the TV on and hear that familiar “BA-DUNK” as the big red N flashes onto your screen… do you feel a little guilty? Even when I know I don’t need to be working, it’s hard to shake the feeling that TV somehow isn’t as ‘worthwhile’ as other activities - like reading, for example. But media executive Chris Oliver-Taylor disagrees. It’s the age of prestige TV, and the format has been elevated to an art form. But what do you watch when watching TV is your job? How do you switch off the analytical side of your brain and just tune out to WandaVision with your daughter? And how do you decide what to watch when you kind of need to watch everything? Chris is currently the Asia Pacific CEO at Fremantle, and will be heading to Netflix as its Australia & New Zealand Head of Physical Production in 2022. He shares how he chooses what to watch, and how he designs the rest of his schedule. He teaches you how to categorise meetings, how to network effectively, and why you should wear a suit. Connect with Chris on Linkedin For recommendations: TV Tonight *** Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberEpisode Producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the year 2000, and Steve Jobs wants Apple computers to be able to burn DVDs, but there’s a problem. A big problem. At the time, DVD burners cost tens of thousands of dollars, and they’re incredibly difficult to use. Neither of those features fit the Apple MO. Jobs’ solution was revolutionary, but not just for the world of computing, or even the world of business. Author Greg McKeown uses the lesson in this illustrative anecdote to radically simplify his work and his life, and it all starts with “zero”. You can find the full interview here: Work less, achieve more, with Greg McKeownConnect with Greg on Twitter or Linkedin, and find Effortless here*** Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When I was in my early twenties, I won an award for a scriptwriting competition run by the Fellowship of Australian Writers, and involved in that process was one of my favourite playwrights - David Williamson. I wrote David a fan letter, and to my great surprise, he replied! That was my first taste of how deeply David respects his audience, and our interview was no different. As the most produced playwright in Australian Theatre’s history, David is extremely productive. Part of this, he says, is just plain old love of the game. Since the very first time he heard actors saying his words out loud, he was completely hooked. And as a professional playwright, the structure of the theatre industry has contributed to his prolific output: when the production company lists your next play in their program, your fate is sealed, and there’s no time to fall prey to writer’s block. David shares his writing process, from the initial idea all the way through to rehearsals with the cast, as well as how he stays positive in the face of criticism, and why his writer wife Kristin’s role as his first reader is so valuable to his work. David’s book: Home Truths *** Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberEpisode Producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budgeting is… boring, right? It’s all spreadsheets, hard maths, and a hundred reasons you shouldn’t go out for brunch anymore. Try telling that to She’s on the Money founder Victoria Devine! Victoria wants you to let go of the idea that budgets are purely a “restriction” tool. Instead, she treats budgeting as an extension of her personality: if you can align your values with your income and your spending, your budget starts to become a pretty important, creative tool. That also means you need to get back to basics and rely a little bit less on technology to tell you how to use your own money. Victoria shares her favourite budgeting app (which is a lot less chic than you might expect), and her favourite analogue budgeting technique for when you really want to go old school with your spending. Connect with Victoria on Twitter, Instagram or LinkedinYou can find the full interview here: Why She’s On The Money’s Victoria Devine doesn’t do long-term career goal setting***Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It wouldn’t work to try to tell the Michael Bungay Stanier story - if anyone’s a collection of stories, it’s MBS. He finished law school being sued for defamation by his professor, he was a Rhodes Scholar in his early 20s, and he’s coached Brene Brown on her own podcast. A life and career with so many twists, turns and new directions brings with it an equally eclectic and overflowing bag of tips, tricks and mindset shifts, and Michael shares them generously. Michael covers everything from how to tackle multi-month projects, journaling techniques, honing your personal brand, and knowing when to say “no”. Connect with Michael at his website and pre-order How To Begin.Neil Pasricha - ‘Two Minute Morning’Julia Funt - ‘A minute to think’Visit amanthaimber.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] you are looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a short monthly newsletter that contains three cool things that I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode Producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At Inventium, we default to asynchronous communication, and it’s been really effective. But… it’s not without some drawbacks. The time saved cutting back on in-person or virtual meetings can sometimes get pushed into writing detailed, thoughtful emails, and you end up back at square one. I’ve tried to combat that by sending shorter, straight-to-the-point messages, but they can occasionally come across as abrupt, or even cold. My solution has been to send audio messages instead. I can get a message across quickly, but use my actual voice to convey the right tone.I’ve even started defaulting to audio messages with my friends and in my dating life. When something doesn’t warrant a phone call, but would be a wall of text on iMessage, the voice memo is a lifesaver. This is how I decide when to send an audio message, the technology I use, and some of the evidence-based benefits of audio vs written communication. Visit amanthaimber.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] you are looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a short monthly newsletter that contains three cool things that I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you ask Marissa King how she’s doing today, she’ll tell you the truth - the good, the bad and the ugly. And her research shows that when she does, you’ll be much more likely to reciprocate that honestly. All of a sudden, you’ve made quite the connection. Marissa calls this “mutually reciprocal self-disclosure”. For those of us who aren’t the professor of Organizational Behavior at the Yale School of Management, that’s a fancy way of saying: people tend to meet you where you are. That’s why Marissa wants to teach us all how to ask better questions when we meet new people. Well-designed questions show people that you’re truly listening, and allow you to make deeper connections, which is at the core of a healthy, thriving social network. Connect with Marissa on Twitter, Linkedin or through her websiteYou can find the full interview here: Bigger is better, and other misconceptions about networks with Marissa King Subscribe to my new podcast How To Date in Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a short monthly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amanthaimber.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s 9:30, and you’ve got just under an hour before your next Zoom meeting. There’s already just a bit too much caffeine buzzing around your brain, and your eyes are half-crossed from the last video call. So how do you recharge and show up refreshed for that next one? If you’re Evernote and mmhmm co-founder Phil Libin, you swim laps. Thanks to the “distributed” nature of mmhmm’s workforce, he can punctuate his work days with distinctly not-work activities. Some days, it’s laps between meetings, other days it’s a stroll around one of his favourite museums while he ponders new ideas.Whatever he chooses on any given day, it’s only possible because of one of the many superpowers of the internet. Phil is happy to solve a few problems with our new way of working, if it means he gets to keep the many, many benefits of working asynchronously and away from a traditional office in the big city. Phil shares his favourite tips on making the most of remote work (including why he doesn’t like the term “remote”) and some of the biggest lessons he learned as the CEO of Evernote. Connect with Phil on Twitter or Linkedin Visit amanthaimber.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] you are looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a short monthly newsletter that contains three cool things that I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producer: Jenna KodaSound engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bestselling author and happiness guru Gretchen Rubin isn’t Type A. She’s Type A+, so she knows her way around a well-ordered pros and cons list. But when she and her family were deciding whether or not get a dog, that kind of hyperlogical thinking didn’t feel quite right, and ultimately had her going around in circles. Instead, she asked herself, ‘What’s the bigger life?’When it comes to major life decisions, breaking things down into tiny details doesn’t reflect the bigness of the decision. So with that in mind, Gretchen shares a number of questions she asks herself in order to make better decisions. Connect with Gretchen on Twitter or LinkedinYou can find the full interview here: The habits of happiness with Gretchen RubinIf you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a short fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amanthaimber.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It doesn’t matter if you’re not a professional writer - as a professional anything, you’re going to need to do a lot of writing. According to best-selling author Jamila Rizvi, this is a good thing, because your writing skills are like a muscle and therefore need constant training. She teaches you how to improve your writing no matter what field you’re in, and shares some tips for building momentum and staying focused during lockdown. Jamila also gives tips on how to edit your own work if you don’t have a professional editor, and how you can use friends and family to side-step the tunnel vision that gets in the way of good, clear writing. Connect with Jamila on Twitter, Instagram, or via her website. Grab a copy of Work.Love.Body. Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberEpisode Producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gary Mehigan had just opened his first restaurant, and was confident that he’d mastered the art of cooking. However, he’d soon realise he was yet to master the business of cooking. So, he hired a business coach, and everything changed. The most important thing Gary learned from that coach? The one-page “reset.” Every night, over a cup of tea, Gary writes one page of reflections, questions and goals, and he swears by the process. He believes that whenever he lets this practice slide for too long, his performance - and the performance of his whole team - suffers. Gary breaks down how to use the one-page reset, and why writing the same thing every single day is not only OK - it’s actually the point. Connect with Gary on TwitterYou can find the full interview here: Mastering the business of cooking with chef Gary Mehigan Subscribe to my new podcast How To Date in Apple Podcasts or Spotify.If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a short monthly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amanthaimber.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’ve crushed it in a meeting - everyone seems to be listening intently, excited about your ideas, and when you ask for feedback at the end, you get nothing but praise. So why then, two weeks down the line, do you find out that a few people didn’t agree with a word you said, and there’s a slew of things you could’ve done better? Peakon CEO and co-founder Phil Chambers says it might be because data’s a lot more honest than the people it comes from. Phil shares what he learned from starting a company without the skills to build the product, how he uses data in his own workplace, and why finding meaning in your work is more important than perks or engagement activities. Connect with Phil on LinkedIn Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITS Produced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You need to be in the office at nine, and if you want to be performing at your best, you’ll need to get in a quick workout and a nutritious breakfast. That doesn’t leave a lot of time for trying to pull an outfit together, so you’ll also need to sort that out the night before. Oh, and you need to make sure your kids have eaten a healthy breakfast, put their school uniforms on, brushed their teeth, packed their bags, and not started an all-out war with one another before getting in the car for drop-off. Thankfully, parenting expert and bestselling author Dr Justin Coulson has a formula to help you do all of that, while also teaching your kids life skills and taking some of the workload off your own shoulders. Sounds too good to be true? Well, the system is called Make Mornings Magic. Justin lays out his four rules for keeping the morning chaos at bay, and how his routine has improved his relationship with his own kids. Connect with Justin on his website.Check out the Happy Families podcast. Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITS Produced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Radek Sali’s working in a cinema - his first job out of school - when he realises that encouraging his team to up-sell popcorn and make more choc-tops might be more valuable than what he’s learning at university. It’s then that Radek decides to treat his career like that of a professional athlete: he accepts that it will be a long, tiring journey full of sacrifice, but worth it for a life of passion and excitement. It’s safe to say Radek made the right call - since then, he’s been a leading figure in the Australian health and wellness market, working in various capacities with Swisse, Hydralyte and myDNA among many, many more. Radek shoulders a wide variety of responsibilities, and employs a wide variety of techniques to stay on top of his game. He shares how meditation, DNA tests, workplace culture assessments and altruism work together to make him happier, healthier and more productive. Connect with Radek on Twitter or Linkedin Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I was a competitive kid, and some classroom rivalries pushed me to better grades than I might have achieved otherwise. However, I was also a perfectionist, and any “A”s that came without a “+” beside them started to feel less like an almost-perfect achievement and more like a glaring signal that I’d missed the mark. I hated failing, and when you combine that with believing anything less than the top spot is a loss, you have a recipe for disaster. I hid my failures, refusing to talk about them, terrified that if people knew I wasn’t perfect, they wouldn’t like me anymore. Not only is this a good way to spend a lot of time being angry with yourself, but it turns out it makes the feeling of failing even worse. On the other hand, being open and honest about your failures actually makes us more resilient and improves self-belief. So in 2020, I wrote my first Failure Resume as an experiment. And now, I’m revisiting it and sharing it with you. Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yes, even Liane Moriarty, author of smash-hit novels like Big Little Lies and Nine Perfect Strangers is prone to “doom-scrolling” from time to time. Liane was the first Australian writer to ever debut a novel at #1 on the New York Times’ bestsellers list. The HBO adaptation of Big Little Lies, starring Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman, was nominated for an astonishing 21 Emmys and won eight. And yet, just like the rest of us, she still struggles with distractions, negative self-talk, and finding time to work while raising a family. She shares how tracking her word count keeps her motivated while working on a novel, the importance of looking back on past successes to keep negative thoughts at bay, and why she always writes “The End” when finishing a book, even when she knows it won’t make it into the published version. She also outlines her writing process - from premise to characters to rewriting - and what she’s learned about interviews from Nicole Kidman. Connect with Liane on her website and grab a copy of Apples Never Fall. Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producer: Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Working can be hard work… obviously. But that doesn’t mean it should only be hard work. Studies show we laugh and smile less as we enter our 20s - which is when most of us enter the full-time workforce. Given how much of our lives we spend at work, we all want to make it a bit more fun. But the good news for the boss is - laughing more often at work makes us better at our jobs! So the question is: how do we become funnier? Naomi Bagdonas teaches humour at Stanford University (yes, that’s a real job) and shares some concrete, actionable tips for being funny, and for making humour a habit. Connect with Naomi on Twitter or Linkedin You can find the full interview here: How to bring more comedy into your next stand-up meeting, with Naomi Bagdonas Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITS Produced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s 4:27AM. That’s right. Not 4:25, not 4:30, but exactly 4:27. When you’re a veteran breakfast radio host like Christian O’Connell, you calculate your latest possible wakeup time to the second. Once he’s out the door, it’s a 20 to 30-minute commute, but it’s one he really enjoys. It’s the only time in a pretty hectic workday he has completely to himself. After that, it’s 15 minutes of solitude and total silence in the studio so Christian can focus on the one word that’s going to guide this morning’s show - it could be “gratitude”, it could be “openness”, or it could just be “funny.”Christian has a huge range of tools, tactics and routines in place to make the most of his work days, and they’re based on years of experience, hard work… and hard times. He shares how he’s built those routines, and how he uses other tools like breath work and therapy to overcome his darkest hours.Connect with Christian on Twitter or LinkedinGrab your copy of No One Listens to Your Dad's Show. Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Working from home used to sound like the dream, didn’t it? If you work from home, you’re always at home! But I think we’re all starting to realise the flip-side of the WFH movement - if you work from home, you’re also always at work. And for most people, the move to working from home has been quite sudden, and you likely don’t have the space for a designated office. A lot of us are working from our dining room tables, but according to Lucy Feagins, editor of The Design Files, that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the beauty of your workspace. Lucy walks you through how she sets up her own space at home, and teaches you the importance of having a set-up and pack-down ritual if you’re working from a shared living space. She also shares her favourite tools and trinkets to make her home office enjoyable to work in, and reflective of her personality - which is especially important in the age of Zoom!Follow these links to find all the things Lucy recommends in our chat:Muji storageSteelcase office chairsPhillips HueIKEA office chairsCultHay lightsIn Good CompanyNoguchi lights Connect with Lucy on Twitter or Linkedin, at her website or on Instagram Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.coVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the Phantom of the Opera, Josh Piterman’s story is already pre-written for him. But as an actor and a person, Josh writes that narrative himself. Josh shares how repeating the same esoteric ritual before every show helps him enter a flow state. For him, focusing on being present ensures that every performance feels like a brand new show. He also breaks down how journaling and teaching meditation make him a more generous and grateful person, and how working with a world-famous mindset coach has changed his life. Connect with Josh on Twitter or at his website Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co/?SUS=HIWshownotesVisit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes.Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode Producer: Jenna KodaSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you have to do today? A long, detailed report? A whole slew of meetings? Make dinner, do laundry, somehow squeeze in a workout? I feel you! Between work, family, friendships and looking after our health, there’s a lot we feel like we have to do. But therein lies the problem… Thinking that we have to do something automatically makes it feel like a burden. Your self-talk is really powerful, but thankfully, it works both ways. Turia Pitt, the bestselling author, two-time Ironman and survivor of a devastating near-death experience teaches you how one simple phrase can help you reframe those to-dos into “get-to-do”s. Connect with Turia on Twitter or Linkedin You can find the full interview here: Turia Pitt’s Next Tuesday rule, hacks for dramatically improving self-talk, and how to be useful when someone is going through a rough time Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITS Produced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today's show is brought to you by Nespresso Professional.In previous episodes of How I Work, we’ve talked about the value of “micro-breaks” for maintaining energy over a long day at the office. Nespresso’s Jean-Marc Dragoli takes this to a new level, stealing away for a “coffee moment” seven to ten times a day! He teaches you how a cup of coffee can facilitate anything from quiet reflection to a sense of connection with farmers on the other side of the globe. He also gives you the low-down on caffeine content and decaf, as well as suggestions for brewing your own cup at home. Jean-Marc is also a serial language learner, speaking at least “five and a half” languages in his estimation. He shares his secrets for learning and maintaining multiple languages, and why it’s a critical skill if you want to connect with a new culture. Connect with Jean-Marc Dragoli on Twitter or LinkedIn Check out the Nespresso Professional range: https://www.nespresso.com/pro/au/en/Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co/?SUS=HIWshownotes Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITS Produced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode Producer: Jenna KodaSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

***BEST OF HOW I WORK***Does business really need to be so serious? Stanford Business School humour lecturer Naomi Bagdonas believes there’s always room for humour, even when you’re trying to accomplish very serious things. She’s found utilising humour can boost innovation, foster creativity, and bolster resilience through hard times. Naomi says bringing levity into your day-to-day exchanges can diffuse tension and help your colleagues understand you on a deeper level. She shares tips from her book Humor, Seriously, written with Jennifer Aaker, on how to incorporate humour into presentations and meetings, how to write a joke, and tips for bringing comedy into your emails. Naomi teaches humour as part of a purpose and leadership course at Stanford’s Graduate School of Business. She also coaches top executives in the art of comedy. Assess your own personal humour style: https://quiz.humorseriously.com/ Get your copy of Humor, Seriously: https://www.humorseriously.com/ Sign up for the 21 day Humour Bootcamp: https://bootcamp.humorseriously.com/ Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITS Produced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction Support from Deadset StudiosEpisode Producer: Jenna KodaSound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Levels CEO and digital nomad Sam Corcos teaches you how to get a bird’s-eye view of your company with a quarterly “think week.” See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When his past students complained of being stuck in jobs they hated, organisational psychologist and best-selling author Adam Grant decided he needed to find a remedy. He says we should all be scheduling regular life check-ups. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kara Swisher doesn’t have imposter syndrome… And for good reason. She’s a celebrated journalist, opinion columnist for The New York Times, the host of the Sway podcast, and the co-host of Pivot. Kara teaches you how to be practical in your self-evaluation, which often means you need to give yourself some praise. She reflects on how society’s views on her sexuality and gender have forced her to advocate for herself when no one else would. That’s given her an unbreakable self-confidence over the course of her career. Connect with Kara on Twitter or Linkedin You can find the full interview here: Why NYT journalist Kara Swisher has never had imposter syndrome Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITSProduced by InventiumHost: Amantha Imber Sound Engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do your knees shake at the thought of public speaking? Are you intimidated before a big interview? Do you worry about finding the right mentor? Holly Ransom, Fulbright Scholar and author of The Leading Edge, says it’s because you’re thinking about yourself. All those nerves will fall away if you re-frame and focus instead on the value you can bring to others. And if you’re hoping to find a great mentor, you have to be willing to pay it forward. Holly also shares how you can better manage your days by doing an energy audit, taking micro-breaks, and setting the right number of goals. Connect with Holly on Twitter or Linkedin Connect with me on the socials:LinkedinTwitterInstagram If you’re looking for more tips to improve the way you work, I write a fortnightly newsletter that contains three cool things I have discovered that help me work better, which range from interesting research findings through to gadgets I am loving. You can sign up for that at http://howiwork.co Visit https://www.amantha.com/podcast for full show notes from all episodes. Get in touch at [email protected] CREDITS Produced by InventiumHost: Amantha ImberProduction support from Deadset StudiosEpisode producers: Jenna Koda and Liam RiordanSound engineer: Martin ImberSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.