Positively Living®: Shame-Free Productivity Conversations

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Tech Stack Tips for Work-Life Balance

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Episode 178 7 Techniques and Tools Used by a Productivity Expert

Do you ever wonder what tools are actually behind a productivity coach's own systems? Last week Lisa walked through the seven techniques she uses daily to keep her life and business running. This week, she's going deeper into the tech stack—the actual tools—behind those techniques. But this isn't a "best tools" list. It's Lisa's preferred tools list: the ones she's chosen, stuck with, adapted, or swapped out over time.

In this episode, Lisa shares her personal tech stack, from the analog-meets-digital RocketBook for note-taking, to Todoist for fast, low-friction task capture, to the Google Suite that touches nearly every other tool on her list. She covers how Calendly eliminates scheduling back-and-forth, why Trello still fits her brain for visual project tracking (podcast guest pipelines and even recipe organization), and how ClickUp supports her podcast production workflow with her team. She also talks through Kit (formerly ConvertKit) for email automation and e-commerce, Canva for design and training recordings, and Riverside for high-quality remote podcast recording. Lisa closes with a few honorable mentions—WordPress/Divi, Voxer and WhatsApp for async coaching, and built-in social media schedulers—and reinforces the guiding principle behind every choice: process over platform. She figured out what she needed each tool to do for her before she ever committed to it, and that's the mindset she wants listeners to carry into their own tool decisions.

Key Takeaways:

Discover why "process over platform" should guide every tech tool decision, not the other way around.
Learn how RocketBook bridges analog note-taking with digital storage for easy reference and sharing.
Explore why Todoist's simplicity and low friction make it ideal for fast task capture and recurring tasks.
Understand how Google Calendar, Drive, and Docs form the backbone of scheduling, storage, and writing workflows.
Learn how Calendly integrates with Google Calendar to eliminate scheduling confusion and automate confirmations and reminders.
Discover how Trello's Kanban-style boards support both project tracking (podcast guest spots) and personal organization (recipes).
Explore why sometimes the best tool is the one your collaborators already use, like ClickUp for podcast production.
Learn how Kit consolidated email automation and e-commerce into one streamlined platform.
Discover how Canva simplifies design work and even supports recorded training presentations.
Understand why Riverside's local recording ensures clean, reliable podcast audio and video quality.
Explore honorable mentions like WordPress/Divi, Voxer/WhatsApp, and built-in social media schedulers.
Learn why switching tools should only happen when it's genuinely worth the time and cost.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Tech Tools Playlist

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7 Productivity Methods for a Better Life [Re-release]

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Episode 178 7 Techniques and Tools Used by a Productivity Expert

Do you ever feel like you're constantly trying new productivity tools, apps, and systems, but still find yourself overwhelmed by everything you need to remember and manage? Maybe you have a calendar, a to-do list, reminders, and countless notes—but you're still spending too much mental energy figuring out what needs to happen next.

The problem isn't always that you need a better productivity app. Sometimes, what you really need are simple, repeatable processes that take work off your brain and make everyday life easier to manage.

In this re-release, Lisa revisits one of her favorite behind-the-scenes episodes and shares the seven productivity techniques she uses regularly to keep both her business and home life running as smoothly as possible. From mind sweeping and task lists to automation, templates, checklists, scheduling, and a family command center, she walks through the practical systems that help her stay organized without relying on complicated productivity hacks.

You'll learn why mind sweeping can help clear mental clutter, how to turn an overwhelming to-do list into a focused list of your most important tasks, and why automating repetitive work can save more energy than you might realize. Lisa also explains how templates and checklists can simplify recurring tasks, reduce the chance of forgetting important steps, and make delegation easier.

You'll also discover how using your calendar as a central source of information can help you manage both personal and professional responsibilities, and how a simple command center can reduce the mental load of coordinating a busy household. Throughout the episode, Lisa emphasizes an important principle: the goal isn't to find the perfect platform or productivity system, but to create processes that genuinely work for you.

Because this is a re-release, Lisa also shares a few updates to the tools mentioned in the original episode, including the transition from Acuity to Calendly and from ConvertKit to Kit. While the technology may change, the underlying productivity techniques continue to stand the test of time.

This week, episode 328 of the Positively Living® Podcast explores seven practical productivity methods that can help you reduce mental clutter, simplify recurring responsibilities, save energy, and create systems that support both your work and your everyday life.

Key Takeaways:

Discover how mind sweeping can clear mental clutter and get tasks out of your head.
Learn how to use focused task lists and Most Important Things (MITs) to prioritize your day.
Explore how automation can reduce repetitive work and save mental energy.
Discover how templates can make recurring emails, posts, and communications faster and easier.
Learn how checklists can prevent missed steps, support delegation, and create simple SOPs.
Understand how scheduling and reminders can help you stay on top of both personal and professional commitments.
Discover how a family command center can reduce mental load and improve household communication.
Learn why visual systems can make responsibilities and schedules easier for everyone to understand.
Explore why consistent processes matter more than constantly finding new productivity tools.
Discover how sustainable productivity is about creating systems that keep life moving without adding overwhelm or burnout.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 220 How Decluttering Helps You Stress Less and Focus Better

Tech Tools Playlist

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Time Blocking like a School Day

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Episode 124: [Strategy Call] Using School Themes to Time Block with Lauren Yee

Do you ever feel like your days are filled with tasks, but you still struggle to decide what to work on first? Maybe every morning starts with a long to-do list, constant interruptions, and the exhausting mental effort of figuring out what deserves your attention next.

The problem isn't always that you have too much to do. Often, it's that your work lacks a clear rhythm. Without a reliable structure, every decision requires energy, context switching drains your focus, and it's easy to fall into reactive mode instead of making intentional progress.

In this episode, Lisa revisits one of the podcast's most popular productivity coaching sessions and explores how creating a schedule inspired by the familiar rhythm of a school day can help you reclaim focus and reduce decision fatigue. Drawing from her coaching conversations with Lauren Yee, she explains how assigning recurring "subjects" or themed focus blocks to your week creates a flexible framework that supports deeper work without becoming rigid or restrictive.

You'll learn why school-style time blocking works so well for many people, how playful and personalized labels can make your schedule more engaging, and why transition periods between activities are just as important as the work itself. Lisa also shares practical tips for adapting this approach to different lifestyles, including entrepreneurs, caregivers, people with unpredictable schedules, and neurodivergent brains.

This week, episode 327 of the Positively Living® Podcast explores how using a school-inspired approach to time blocking can reduce decision fatigue, improve focus, and help you build a schedule that feels both structured and sustainable.

Key Takeaways:

Discover how a school-day framework can simplify your weekly schedule.
Learn why recurring themed time blocks reduce daily decision fatigue.
Understand how context switching impacts your focus and productivity.
Explore why batching similar work together helps your brain work more efficiently.
Learn how assigning "subjects" to your week creates clarity without rigidity.
Discover why playful labels can make your schedule more engaging.
Understand how naming your work intentionally helps you connect with its purpose.
Learn why transition periods between tasks are essential for maintaining focus.
Discover how "passing periods" can reduce overwhelm and prevent burnout.
Explore the difference between working in your business versus working on your business.
Learn why your schedule should be built around your real life—not your ideal one.
Understand how flexible time blocking can support unpredictable schedules.
Discover why reviewing and adjusting your schedule is part of the process—not a sign of failure.
Learn how curiosity and experimentation create more sustainable productivity systems.
Explore why this approach works especially well for people who crave structure but resist rigidity.
Discover how themed scheduling can benefit neurodivergent brains by adding novelty and engagement.
Learn how to identify the five to seven major categories of work in your week.
Understand why you don't need to schedule every hour to experience the benefits of time blocking.
Discover how starting with one themed day each week can make the process feel more approachable.
Learn why creating a schedule with rhythm, variety, and flexibility leads to greater consistency and less overwhelm.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 125: [Strategy Call] Follow Up to School Style Time Blocking with Lauren Yee

Episode 245: Themes: The Simple Time Management Trick You Need

Episode 273: How to Make Time Blocking Fun

Episode 274: Manage Your Time Better with Proper Transitions

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

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How Ritual and Routine Build Effective Habits

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 20:00:00 -0400

Episode 241: How Being Cozy Helps You Be More Productive

Do you ever have a routine that looks great on paper but somehow feels disconnected, mechanical, or difficult to stick with? Maybe you have the right systems in place, but you're moving through them like a checklist instead of feeling genuinely engaged with what you're doing.

The structure of your routine matters, but structure alone isn't always enough to create lasting change. When your habits start to feel hollow or you're struggling to stay consistent, the missing piece may not be more discipline or a better system—it may be meaning. The way you experience what you're doing can make all the difference.

In this episode, Lisa explores the powerful difference between routines and rituals and why you need both to create habits and systems that actually work for you. She explains how routines provide the structure and consistency needed to build habits, while rituals add intention, meaning, and personal connection to the things you're already doing. You'll hear how small sensory cues, intentional transitions, and meaningful details can transform an ordinary routine into something you genuinely want to return to.

Lisa also shares a real-life example of helping a client create a writing ritual, along with the personal rituals she uses for journaling and recording the podcast. You'll discover how to build rituals into routines you already have without adding unnecessary complexity, spending money, or starting over. The goal isn't to create a perfect ritual—it's to make what you're already doing feel more intentional, personal, and sustainable.

This week, episode 326 of the Positively Living® Podcast explores the difference between rituals and routines and shares how adding meaning, mindfulness, and personalized cues to your existing habits can help you create systems that feel more like you.

Key Takeaways:

Learn the difference between a routine and a ritual and why both are important for sustainable habits.
Discover how routines create structure, reduce decision fatigue, and build consistency.
Understand how rituals add meaning and intention to the actions you're already taking.
Recognize the signs that you may have routines without enough ritual—or meaningful intentions without enough structure.
Learn why you don't need to create an entirely new practice to build a ritual.
Discover how sensory cues like music, scent, lighting, and favorite tools can signal to your brain that it's time to shift into a particular activity.
Explore how a writing ritual helped one of Lisa's clients transition from a busy workday into focused creative time.
Learn how intentional transitions can help your brain recognize that you're moving from one type of work into another.
Discover how Lisa uses a personalized ritual to make her monthly journaling practice more meaningful.
Understand why rituals help you move from automatic to aware and from pushing through to being present.
Learn how to identify one existing routine that could benefit from more meaning and intention.
Discover how to use a brief intention to connect what you're doing with why it matters to you.
Understand why your ritual should remain simple enough to survive busy and overwhelming seasons.
Learn how your favorite tools and supplies can make an existing routine more enjoyable and personal without requiring a shopping spree.
Explore how functionality, sustainability, and personal preference can all become part of a meaningful ritual.
Discover how visual cues can help you transition between different types of work.
Learn why the experience of doing something matters just as much as the steps required to accomplish it.
Explore how small, intentional details can make your productivity systems feel more personalized and sustainable.
Understand why routines help you get where you want to go, but rituals are what make those routines yours.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Positively Living® Podcast Habits Playlist

Favorite Office Supplies & Tools

Favorite Podcasting Gear

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How Resetting Your Space Clears Your Mind

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Decluttering Playlist on the Positively Living® Podcast

Do you ever sit down to start an important task only to realize you have to clean up yesterday's mess first? Or feel like you're already behind before you've even begun because your workspace, browser tabs, or to-do list are filled with unfinished business?

The clutter around us isn't just visual—it creates mental friction that quietly drains our energy, focus, and motivation. Whether it's a desk covered in papers, dozens of open browser tabs, or a mind full of unfinished tasks, every unresolved item competes for our attention. The good news? You don't need to organize your entire life to feel more in control. Sometimes all you need is a simple reset.

In this episode, Lisa introduces her powerful "Back to Neutral" approach—a practical end-of-day reset that's helped countless clients reduce overwhelm and begin each day with greater clarity and ease. She explains the science behind why unfinished tasks weigh so heavily on our minds, walks through the three essential areas to reset (physical, digital, and written), and shares a simple five-minute habit that can dramatically improve your focus, productivity, and peace of mind. You'll discover that creating a fresh start tomorrow begins with a small investment today.

This week, episode 325 of the Positively Living® Podcast explores how resetting your space clears your mind and shares a simple framework for reducing mental clutter so you can start every day with greater focus and less stress.

Key Takeaways:

Learn why having to "do work before doing your work" quietly drains your energy and motivation.
Discover Lisa's "Back to Neutral" method for creating a more productive starting point each day.
Understand how unfinished tasks create mental tension through the Zeigarnik Effect.
Learn why giving unfinished work an intentional home can calm your brain almost as effectively as completing it.
Discover how a brief end-of-day reset creates a significant return on your time and energy investment.
Explore the three essential reset areas: physical, digital, and written.
Learn how visual clutter impacts your ability to focus, create, and make decisions.
Discover why open browser tabs and overflowing inboxes are hidden sources of mental overload.
Learn how creating a "mental bookmark" helps your future self get started without hesitation.
Understand why your workspace doesn't need to be perfect—it simply needs to be workable.
Discover how a daily mind sweep complements your physical reset by clearing mental clutter.
Learn practical ways to capture ideas and unfinished tasks so your brain doesn't have to hold onto them.
Explore a simple five-minute end-of-day routine that builds consistency without feeling overwhelming.
Understand how small, intentional resets compound over time to reduce stress and improve productivity.
Learn how creating a fresh starting point each day helps you work with more focus, confidence, and ease.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Free Guided Mind Sweep Workbook & Audio

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How to Find Time to Rest

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Episode 297: The Joy List: Your Key to Self-Care

Do you ever tell yourself you'll rest after you finish everything on your to-do list—only to discover the list never actually ends? Or find yourself feeling guilty the moment you slow down, convinced you haven't earned a break yet?

Many of us understand that rest is important, but knowing we need it and actually making space for it are two very different things. Productivity culture has taught us to see rest as a reward instead of a requirement, leaving us exhausted, overwhelmed, and wondering why we're still running on empty.

In this episode, Lisa explores the biggest barriers that keep us from getting the rest we truly need and shares practical strategies for making rest part of everyday life. Building on last week's conversation with Gary Ware, she explains why rest isn't something you have to earn, how to identify the types of rest that genuinely restore you, and simple ways to weave meaningful breaks into even the busiest schedule. You'll discover that sustainable productivity begins with rest—not after it.

This week, episode 324 of the Positively Living® Podcast explores how to find time to rest and shares practical strategies for making restorative rest a realistic part of your daily life.

Key Takeaways:

Understand why rest is a necessity—not a reward you have to earn.
Recognize the mindset shifts that make prioritizing rest feel so difficult.
Learn why productivity actually depends on consistent, restorative rest.
Discover why rest looks different for everyone and how to identify what truly restores you.
Explore how your Joy List can help you reconnect with activities that energize you.
Learn to notice which activities leave you feeling refreshed versus more depleted.
Understand Gary Ware's Macro, Micro, and Mezzo Rest framework and how to apply it.
Discover simple ways to improve the quality of your sleep through better sleep hygiene.
Learn how a consistent wind-down routine prepares your nervous system for deeper rest.
Explore practical five-minute micro breaks that actually help you recharge.
Understand why scrolling or checking email doesn't count as true rest.
Learn how transition rituals between tasks reduce stress and improve focus.
Discover how "When-Then" habit triggers make restorative breaks easier to maintain.
Learn why scheduling larger blocks of restorative time requires intentional planning.
Recognize how starting with one small, consistent change creates lasting habits around rest.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 323: Why Rest Isn't Optional with Gary Ware

Free Joy List Workbook

Free 2-Minute Transition Meditation

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Three Types of Rest for Managing Stress with Gary Ware [Re-release]

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0400

We often think rest is something we earn after we've worked hard enough. We push through exhaustion, tell ourselves we'll slow down later, and believe that getting more done is the key to feeling better. But what if we've been thinking about rest all wrong?

This week, in episode 323 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, we're revisiting one of our most impactful conversations with Gary Ware, founder of Breakthrough Play, keynote speaker, certified coach, and bestselling author of Playful Rebellion. As part of our summer series on energy, stress, and nervous system regulation, this timely re-release explores why rest is essential—not as a reward for productivity, but as the foundation that makes sustainable productivity possible.

Gary Ware is the founder of Breakthrough Play, a keynote speaker, certified coach, and the bestselling author of Playful Rebellion. Through applied improvisation, positive psychology, and the science of play, Gary helps individuals and organizations reduce stress, strengthen communication, spark creativity, and build more sustainable ways of working. His mission is to help people challenge the belief that productivity requires constant hustle and instead embrace play and rest as powerful tools for greater impact, innovation, and well-being.

In this conversation, Gary introduces three distinct types of rest—macro, micro, and meso—and explains how each one helps reduce stress, restore creativity, and support your energy in different ways. He also shares why play isn't childish, why entrepreneurs often resist rest the most, and how small shifts can dramatically improve your focus, well-being, and impact.

Key Takeaways:

Rest isn't something you earn. It's something that allows you to do your best work.
Chronic stress keeps your brain in fight, flight, or freeze mode, reducing creativity, empathy, and clear thinking.
Better sleep isn't always about getting more hours. Improving the quality of your sleep can make a significant difference.
A consistent wind-down routine helps your body transition into restorative sleep.
Macro rest focuses on deep restoration through quality sleep and recovery.
Micro rest consists of short five-minute breaks throughout the day that help reset your brain and restore energy between tasks.
Scrolling social media or checking email isn't true rest. Choose activities that genuinely recharge you instead.
Meso rest means intentionally stepping away from work for several hours, a day, or longer to pursue hobbies, family time, or activities that bring joy.
Hobbies aren't a luxury—they help your brain make creative connections and improve problem-solving.
Play looks different for everyone. The goal isn't to do what others find fun, but to discover what genuinely restores and energizes you.
Sustainable productivity begins with honoring your energy, not constantly pushing through exhaustion.

Rest isn't the opposite of productivity—it's what makes productivity sustainable. When you give yourself permission to rest before you're completely depleted, you create space for greater creativity, better decisions, stronger relationships, and more meaningful work. What would change if you stopped trying to earn your rest and started treating it as one of your greatest strengths?

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Playful Rebellion: Maximize Workplace Success Through the Power of Play

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 321: Why Fun and Play Belong in a Productive Life

Episode 249: Five Energizing Habits to Make You More Productive

Episode 172: Why the Simple Act of Pausing Will Make You More Productive

Play: How It Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul by Dr. Stuart Brown

Primed to Perform by Neel Doshi & Lindsay McGregor

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

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Why Being Bored is Good

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Episode 172: Why the Simple Act of Pausing Will Make You More Productive

Have you ever found yourself reaching for your phone the moment you have a few minutes of downtime? Or felt uncomfortable sitting in silence without something to watch, listen to, or do?

We've come to believe that boredom is something to avoid at all costs. But what if boredom isn't a problem to solve? What if those quiet, unstructured moments are exactly what your brain needs to think more creatively, solve problems, and restore your mental energy?

In this episode, Lisa challenges the belief that every moment needs to be filled with activity or content. She explores the fascinating neuroscience behind boredom, explains how your brain's default mode network supports creativity and insight, and shares simple ways to intentionally create space for productive mind-wandering. You'll learn why embracing boredom isn't wasting time—it's giving your brain one of the most valuable productivity tools available.

This week, episode 322 of the Positively Living® Podcast explores why boredom is good for your brain and shares practical ways to use quiet moments to boost creativity, problem-solving, and mental well-being.

Key Takeaways:

Understand why boredom isn't a problem—but an important signal from your brain.
Learn how the brain's Default Mode Network (DMN) supports creativity, reflection, and innovation.
Discover why unstructured cognitive time is essential for productive thinking.
Recognize how constant digital stimulation prevents your brain from making meaningful connections.
Learn why mind wandering is a powerful tool for problem-solving and future planning.
Explore the surprising research showing why people often avoid boredom at all costs.
Understand how social media and constant scrolling can leave you feeling less satisfied over time.
Learn why boredom can feel especially uncomfortable for people with ADHD—and why it's still valuable.
Discover simple ways to create intentional low-stimulation pockets throughout your day.
Learn why starting with just five minutes of quiet can strengthen your brain's creative capacity.
Recognize the importance of observing your habits without judgment as you practice stillness.
Reframe boredom as "unstructured cognitive time" to better appreciate its purpose.
Learn why allowing children (and yourself) to experience boredom encourages creativity and independence.
Hear how embracing quiet moments can support both your productivity and nervous system.
Discover why making room for boredom may be one of the most productive habits you build.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

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Have Fun to Be More Productive

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:00:00 -0400

Episode 56: How Play Helps Quiet Your Inner Critic with Jeff Harry

Have you ever caught yourself saying, "I'll have fun once everything is done"—only to realize that everything is never actually done? Or felt guilty for taking time to do something you enjoy because there are still tasks waiting for you?

Many of us were taught that fun is something we have to earn after we've finished working. But when the to-do list never ends, joy keeps getting postponed. What if having fun wasn't a reward for productivity—but one of the things that actually made you more productive?

In this episode, Lisa challenges the belief that productivity has to be serious. She explores the science behind play, explains how fun fuels creativity, motivation, and resilience, and shares practical ways to intentionally bring more joy into your daily life. You'll learn why making space for play isn't indulgent—it's one of the smartest productivity strategies you can adopt.

This week, episode 321 of the Positively Living® Podcast explores why having fun makes you more productive and shares simple ways to use play as a powerful tool for boosting your energy, creativity, and capacity.

Key Takeaways:

Understand why fun is often treated as a reward instead of a productivity tool.
Learn how play supports your brain, creativity, and long-term productivity.
Discover the connection between dopamine, motivation, and creative problem-solving.
Recognize why delaying joy until your work is finished creates a cycle of burnout.
Learn why play is productive work for your brain, not a distraction from it.
Understand the difference between play and fun—and why both matter.
Explore how guilt and cultural beliefs keep adults from prioritizing play.
Reframe fun as an investment in your energy rather than something you have to earn.
Identify activities you've stopped doing that once brought you genuine joy.
Learn how to use play to prime your brain before tackling difficult tasks.
Discover why even 5–20 minutes of fun can positively impact your focus and motivation.
Build a personalized list of joyful activities you can easily incorporate into busy days.
Hear a real-life coaching example of how prioritizing creativity improved productivity.
Learn why protecting time for play helps reduce stress and increase resilience.
Discover how making room for joy allows you to show up more consistently in every area of your life.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 197: Why Prioritizing Happiness Makes You More Productive

Episode 312: Energy Management: Build Capacity Instead of Just Managing Time

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

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How to Create Your Best Seasonal Schedule

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Episode 119: How Productivity is Impacted by Seasonal Energy

Have you ever noticed that a routine that worked perfectly a few months ago suddenly stops working? Or wondered why certain times of the year feel productive and energized while others leave you struggling just to keep up?

Many of us try to create one ideal schedule that will work all year long, but life doesn't operate that way. Our energy, responsibilities, capacity, and priorities naturally shift throughout the year and throughout different stages of life. Instead of forcing ourselves into a rigid routine, what if we created schedules that worked with our seasons instead of against them?

In this episode, Lisa explores how to build a seasonal schedule that reflects both your season of life and the rhythms of the calendar year. She shares a practical framework for assessing your capacity, identifying recurring patterns, and creating flexible schedules that adapt to changing demands while supporting sustainable productivity.

This week, episode 320 of the Positively Living® Podcast explores how to create your best seasonal schedule and shares a step-by-step approach to planning around your energy, capacity, and real-life responsibilities.

Key Takeaways:

Understand why having more options doesn't always lead to greater freedom.
Understand the difference between your season of life and the seasons of the year.
Learn why a single routine often fails to support you throughout the entire year.
Assess your current life season and identify the demands affecting your capacity.
Recognize how family, career, caregiving, and personal transitions impact scheduling.
Map the natural rhythms and recurring patterns that shape your year.
Identify the seasons when you feel most energized, productive, and focused.
Discover how to match tasks and projects to your available energy and bandwidth.
Learn why capacity is about more than just time management.
Create seasonal versions of your schedule that adapt to changing circumstances.
Identify what to prioritize, protect, and release during different seasons.
Build flexibility into your planning without sacrificing consistency.
Use regular reviews and course corrections to keep your schedule aligned with your current reality.
Learn when to simplify your planning and focus on day-to-day management during periods of overwhelm.
Create sustainable systems that evolve as your life and responsibilities change.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 306: Planning a Day That Works for You

On-demand training for the Minimum Effective Day technique

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Applying a Capsule Wardrobe Mindset to Life

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Episode 21 with Hannah Donnelly

Have you ever stood in front of a closet full of clothes and felt like you had nothing to wear? Or stared at a packed calendar, a full fridge, or a long to-do list and felt overwhelmed by all the choices in front of you?

We often assume that having more options gives us more freedom, but in reality, too many choices can create decision fatigue, mental clutter, and unnecessary stress. What if the answer isn't adding more systems, more routines, or more choices, but becoming more intentional about the ones you already have?

In this episode, Lisa explores how the concept of a capsule wardrobe can be applied far beyond fashion. By adopting a capsule mindset, you can create flexible, intentional systems for your schedule, meals, and routines that reduce overwhelm while giving you more freedom to adapt to real life.

This week, episode 319 of the Positively Living® Podcast explores how to use capsule thinking as a practical productivity tool and shares simple ways to simplify decision-making, build sustainable systems, and create more ease in everyday life.

Key Takeaways:

Understand why having more options doesn't always lead to greater freedom.
Learn the core principles behind a capsule wardrobe and how they apply to productivity.
Recognize how decision fatigue contributes to overwhelm and mental exhaustion.
Discover how a capsule schedule can create structure without rigid time blocking.
Explore flex blocking as a more adaptable approach to planning your days.
Simplify meal planning by using versatile ingredients and modular meal components.
Create routines that flex with your energy, capacity, and changing circumstances.
Apply the 80/20 principle to identify the habits that have the biggest impact.
Build systems that work on both your best days and your most challenging ones.
Use seasonal reviews to keep your routines, schedules, and habits aligned with your current needs.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Episode 273: How to Make Time Blocking Fun

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How to Accept You Are Doing Enough with Dr. Allison Alford

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Good Daughtering: The Work You've Always Done, the Credit You've Never Gotten, and How to Finally Feel Like Enough

Many women spend their lives carrying invisible responsibilities for their families without ever realizing how much energy, thought, and emotional labor those responsibilities require. Whether it's keeping the peace, anticipating needs, preserving family traditions, or caring for aging parents, daughters are often expected to do it all—and do it well. The challenge is that these expectations can become so ingrained that many women never stop to ask an important question: How much is enough?

This week, in episode 318 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Allison Alford, communication scholar, researcher, and author of Good Daughtering: The Work You've Always Done, the Credit You've Never Gotten, and How to Finally Feel Like Enough. Allison shares insights from more than a decade of research on the often-unspoken role of adult daughters, exploring the invisible labor they perform, the societal expectations they carry, and how women can redefine what it means to be a "good enough" daughter.

Dr. Allison M. Alford is a communication scholar, researcher, professor at Baylor University, and leading expert on the experience of adult daughters. Through years of interviews and research, she has examined the emotional, cognitive, logistical, and identity-based labor women perform within families. Her work helps daughters recognize their contributions, challenge unrealistic expectations, and create healthier, more sustainable relationships with their families and themselves.

Key Takeaways:

Daughtering is more than caregiving. It includes the ongoing emotional, cognitive, logistical, and identity work daughters perform to keep families connected and functioning.
Much of a daughter's labor is invisible. While tasks like visits and phone calls are visible, the planning, worrying, emotional management, and family coordination often go unnoticed.
Society places unique expectations on daughters. Women are often expected not only to care for family members but to do so willingly, skillfully, and without complaint.
The mental load extends beyond remembering tasks. Daughters frequently anticipate problems, navigate family dynamics, and remove obstacles before anyone else notices them.
Emotional labor has a real cost. Acting as the peacemaker, confidant, or emotional "thermostat" for a family can lead to exhaustion, overwhelm, and burnout.
Birth order and family structure can influence daughtering experiences. Eldest daughters and only daughters often feel heightened responsibility, though every family dynamic is unique.
You have agency to redefine your role. Even long-standing family patterns can be reassessed, and it's possible to establish healthier expectations and boundaries.
Being a "B+ daughter" is enough. Striving for perfection isn't sustainable. Leaving room for your own needs, relationships, and well-being allows you to show up for your family without losing yourself in the process.

The invisible work you do for your family matters. But so do your needs, your capacity, and your well-being. You don't have to earn your worth through endless giving. What would change if you allowed yourself to believe that you are already enough?

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Episode 156: How to Reduce Mental Load as a Parent or Caregiver with Roxanne Ferber

Libby App

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How Less Time Helps You Do More

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Have you ever sat down to write an email, finish a report, or tackle a simple task, only to watch it consume far more time than it should have? It can feel frustrating, especially when you thought having extra time would make things easier. But what if more time is actually part of the problem?

The idea behind Parkinson's Law is surprisingly simple: work expands to fill the time available for its completion. What started as a satirical observation in the 1950s has since been supported by research showing that when people are given more time than they need, they tend to use it, whether the task requires it or not.

In this episode, we're exploring why open-ended time can lead to procrastination, overthinking, perfectionism, and unnecessary task expansion. More importantly, you'll learn how to use intentional time constraints to your advantage so you can focus better, make progress faster, and create a more sustainable approach to productivity that works with your brain instead of against it.

This week, episode 317 of the Positively Living® Podcast explores the practical side of Parkinson's Law and shares simple ways to use time boundaries, self-created deadlines, and focused work sessions to accomplish more without rushing or burning out.

Key Takeaways:

Understand how Parkinson's Law causes tasks to expand simply because more time is available.
Recognize why open-ended projects often lead to procrastination, overthinking, and perfectionism.
Learn why urgency and deadlines can dramatically improve focus, especially for ADHD brains.
Use timeboxing to create clear boundaries that help your brain stay engaged and productive.
Define what "done" looks like before you begin to avoid endless tweaking and refinement.
Create meaningful self-imposed deadlines when external deadlines don't exist.
Improve focus and consistency by working in shorter, intentional sprints instead of marathon sessions.
Develop the self-awareness to recognize when a task genuinely needs more time versus when it's simply expanding to fill available space.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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How to do a Mid-year Reset

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

The halfway point of the year brings up a mix of thoughts, from wondering where the time went to figuring out what comes next. Maybe your January intentions are thriving, or perhaps they quietly dissolved back in February, leaving you with low-grade guilt while you scrambled to stay busy.

January 1st is an arbitrary date driven by culture rather than internal readiness. Forcing yourself to overhaul habits during the darkest, coldest, most energy-depleted stretch of the year forces your recovering nervous system to sprint when it naturally wants rest.

June offers a perfect opportunity to check in and choose to change. Instead of relying on predictions or hopes, you now have six months of real data to assess what actually got your attention, where your energy went, and how to look both backward and forward at the same time.

This week, episode 316 of the Positively Living® Podcast shares a simple, three-question framework to help you pause, clear out what isn't serving you, and make a sustainable plan on your own terms.

Key Takeaways:

Realize that sustainable change requires adequate energy and internal readiness, not just an arbitrary calendar date during winter depletion .
Use the halfway mark of the year to work with actual factual information about your habits instead of relying on predictions or guesses .
Name your systems and small wins without rushing through them, because identifying what went right shows you the conditions that helped you thrive .
Identify where plans fell apart and look closely at the root cause, whether it was wrong timing, over-planning, or a lack of capacity .
Choose how you want to feel or who you want to be over complex, rigid goals when your next immediate steps are unclear .

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Stop trying to fit into someone else’s productivity rules! Grab my free Productivity Toolkit, a collection of workbooks designed to help you explore how you work, uncover what truly matters to you, and create your very own energy-friendly systems. Get it here: www.positivelyproductive.com/plpkit

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Episode 136: Reflections Instead of Resolutions

Episode 242: A Reverse Approach to Better Achieve Your Goals

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How to Soothe Sunday Scaries and Start Your Week Right

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Minimum Effective Day Mini-Training

If Sundays elicit a sense of dread or a creeping feeling of anxiety that builds as the day progresses, you are experiencing a very real psychological phenomenon known as the Sunday scaries. This anticipatory anxiety occurs when your brain projects into the unknown of the week ahead and treats that uncertainty like an immediate threat. Data shows you are genuinely not alone—recent studies from early 2026 reveal that a massive 88% of Americans experience this weekly dread.

The good news is that you cannot simply logic your nervous system into relaxing, but you can take action. Taking small, deliberate steps interrupts the mental spiral, grounds your brain in the present, and allows you to reclaim your weekend.

This week, episode 315 of the Positively Living® Podcast maps out a calm, intentional, and minimal weekly reset strategy that eases the transition back into your routine on your own terms.

Key Takeaways

Understand Anticipatory Anxiety: Sunday dread is a physical threat response triggered by your brain projecting into an uncertain weekly schedule.
Interrupt the Spiral: Small, intentional actions shift your brain away from worst-case future scenarios and ground you in the present.
Establish a Calm Space: Clear your immediate environment before you plan, as visual clutter leads directly to cluttered thinking.
Unplug for Clear Focus: Turn off all phone notifications for just five to ten minutes to allow your nervous system to focus without distraction.
Empty Your Mental Storage: Complete a pen-and-paper mind sweep to capture pending tasks, free up cognitive capacity, and stop mental rumination.
Practice Minimum Effective Planning: Avoid over-planning every hour, which creates rigidity and guarantees frustration when real life disrupts your schedule.
Build a Skeleton Plan: Layout core commitments and just one key priority per day instead of an exhaustive, rigid task list.
Focus on Monday Only: When completely depleted, plan only for the next day's non-negotiables and map out the rest of the week on Monday morning.
Choose Your Best Window: Reset when your natural energy peaks, whether that means a quiet Sunday morning, Saturday afternoon, or Friday before closing down.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

MENTIONED:

Ep 314: How to Calm Your Nervous System for Better Focus and Energy

Ep 306: Planning a Day that Works for You

Ep 133: The Dangers of Over-Planning

Ep 140: How to Declutter Your Mind in One Simple Step

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How to Calm Your Nervous System for Better Focus and Energy

Mon, 18 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

You can own the best planner in the world, maintain a beautifully organized workspace, and set clear priorities, yet still feel like you drag yourself through wet sand. Systems and strategies fail to function if your body runs on high alert. Your nervous system state operates underneath your productivity tools and dictates whether your strategies can express themselves.

This week, episode 314 of the Positively Living® Podcast addresses the physiological layer of productivity. Learn how to transition from survival mode into a state of calm focus so you can make good decisions and execute your best work.

Key Takeaways:

Your nervous system scans your environment outside your conscious control and treats a full inbox or a tight deadline the same way it treats an actual physical threat .
Fight-or-flight responses push your brain's prefrontal cortex offline, which temporarily impairs your capacity for focus, decision-making, and creative thought.
Shift your body into parasympathetic dominance to create the space required to absorb information and think clearly .
Signal safety to your body by make your out-breath longer than your in-breath, which directly stimulates the vagus nerve to slow your stress response .
Combine a double inhale through your nose with a long, slow exhale through your mouth to down-regulate your system faster than traditional mindfulness meditation .
Use physical movement like stretching, a brisk walk, or shake out your hands to release the physical energy that modern conflict leaves behind in your muscles .
Splash cold water on your face to activate the diving reflex, or hum along to a song to stimulate the vagus nerve where it runs through your vocal cords .
Complete a pen-and-paper mind sweep to capture random thoughts and stop the unconscious mental loops that keep your stress response active .
Document exactly what is factually true in the current moment to ground your mind and prevent worst-case scenarios from hijack your focus .
Develop a flexible nervous system that naturally rises to meet daily demands and returns to center quickly when a task finishes .

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 79: How Your Body Responds to Stress

Ep 257 The Special Nerve That Helps With Stress

Ep 140 How to Declutter Your Mind in One Simple Step.

Ep 183 for a no fail approach to gratitude journaling

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Hidden Energy Drains That Affect Your Productivity

Mon, 11 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Have you ever sat down to work with everything you needed, yet still couldn't get anything done? While we often blame a lack of motivation or discipline, productivity stalls are frequently caused by hidden energy leaks rather than a lack of willpower. Energy is the true currency of productivity, and several specific factors can drain it in ways you might not even realize are connected to your output.

This week, episode 313 of the Positively Living® Podcast explores five critical factors that have a direct, measurable impact on your focus and ability to finish your tasks.

Key Takeaways:

Sleep is not a luxury or a reward for finishing your to-do list; it is a biological requirement for your brain to function.
Losing just one or two hours of sleep a night significantly impairs attention and decision-making.
After seventeen to nineteen hours without sleep, your cognitive performance is equivalent to a blood alcohol level of 0.05%.
Your brain consumes roughly 20% of your body's total energy, and blood sugar crashes from skipping meals can slow your reaction times and increase irritability.
Hormones like estrogen and cortisol directly affect your mood, motivation, and the part of the brain responsible for planning and focus.
Simple changes like opening a window or adjusting your lighting can have an immediate impact on your ability to concentrate.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Books Mentioned Amazon

Glucose Research

Prefrontal Cortex Research

Menstrual Cycle Research

Environment Research

PTSD Research

Ep 312: Why Your Energy is More Important Than Your Time

Ep 249: Five Energizing Habits to Make You More Productive

Ep 243: How Your Home Office Makes You More Productive

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Why Your Energy Is More Important Than Your Time

Mon, 04 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Have you ever reached the end of a day where you technically had enough time to do everything, but it still felt like you got nothing done? We talk a lot about time—how to track it, schedule it, and protect it—but time isn’t the only variable in the productivity equation. Time management has a fundamental flaw: it treats all hours as equal, but they aren't. An hour of work at 9:00 AM when you are sharp and focused is completely different from that same hour at 3:00 PM when you are running on empty .

This week, episode 312 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about energy management—the practice of paying attention to, protecting, and replenishing your energy so you can show up fully for what matters .

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how to identify your natural rhythms and why managing your energy is the secret to sustainable productivity.

Key Takeaways:

Understand that a schedule cannot account for sleep, stress levels, or hormonal cycles, which dictate what you are actually capable of in any given hour.
Pay attention when you start reading the same paragraph over and over; that is your clear signal that you lack the energy for the task at hand.
Manage your capacity across four critical levels: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.
Align your most demanding work with your daily "peak windows" and save low-stakes tasks for your natural dips in energy .
Build in "buffer days" and recognize that your motivation in January will naturally look different than it does in July.
Use curiosity instead of judgment to document when you feel most capable and when you feel drained throughout the day.

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Ep 215: Why You Need to Know Your Internal Productivity Rhythm

Ep 119: Seasonal Energy

Ep 160: Seasonal Planning with Erik Fisher

Ep 245: Using Themes to Organize Your Life

Ep 249: 5 Energizing Habits to Make You More Productive

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Making Your Inbox Work for You

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Last week, we focused on clearing the digital clutter through unsubscribing and archiving. Today, we move from the cleanup to the construction of a better system. Whether your inbox is currently chaotic or freshly cleared, the goal is to build a structure that handles community commitments, client needs, and family logistics without competing for your attention.

This week, episode 311 of the Positively Living® Podcast is about how to organize your inbox so it stops being a source of stress and starts being a system for living well!

In this episode of the Positively Living® Podcast, I share how to use filters, labels, and strategic forwarding to ensure your inbox supports your real life.

Key Takeaways:

Automate with Filters: Set up automated instructions to apply labels or archive emails based on specific criteria, such as the sender or subject line.
Create Intuitive Folders: Build labels that match how you naturally search for information, whether by topic or by sender.
Avoid Overcomplicating Categories: Use larger, intentional categories instead of creating a folder for every single thing to prevent a different form of overwhelm.
Route Information Strategically: Use forwarding to keep collaborators in the loop or send action-oriented emails directly to a task manager like Todoist.
Flag for Follow-Up: Utilize the starring feature as a lightweight way to curate a list of emails that require your attention later.
Distinguish Archive from Delete: Archive for intentional preservation of items like contracts, while deleting anything that has served its purpose and is no longer needed.
Define the Tool: Treat your inbox as a decision-making tool rather than a primary to-do list.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Ep 310: Easy Ways to Declutter Your Inbox

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Easy Ways to Declutter Your Inbox

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

When you open your email, how do you feel? If you feel dread, overwhelm, or a low-grade anxiety that makes you want to close the tab immediately, you are not alone. We often focus on physical or mental clutter, but digital clutter is just as real and just as heavy. Your inbox is one of the biggest contributors to your digital mental load, often accumulating faster than you can handle.

This week, episode 310 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about reducing the weight of your email and creating a system that functions the right way for you!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share practical moves to clear out the digital noise and regain your focus without the pressure of achieving a perfect empty inbox.

Key Takeaways:

Digital clutter contributes to a heavy cognitive load and acts as a background hum of unfinished business that drains your energy.
Use your email's built-in categories, like Gmail tabs, to automatically separate marketing emails from your primary correspondence.
Unsubscribing is the most effective long-term move you can make; use the sidebar options or individual links to clear lists without hunting through tiny print.
Work smarter by using the search bar to pull up specific categories like old receipts, confirmations, or newsletters to delete them all at once.
If the backlog feels paralyzing, try the "fresh-start" approach by moving everything currently in your inbox into a dated "Old Inbox" archive folder.
Remember that small, consistent action beats a perfect overhaul; pick one simple task today to start reducing the weight of your digital space.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Ep 244: How to Clear Your Digital Clutter

Ep 308: Declutter Your Calendar for Better Time Management

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How to Deal with Sentimental Clutter

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Grief and Trauma Playlist

Physical clutter is one thing, but sentimental items are in a category of their own. Whether it is a gift from a loved one, a childhood keepsake, or something belonging to someone you have lost, these objects often feel like stand-ins for the people and experiences we cherish. If you have ever felt frozen in front of a box of old cards, you know that this is not just about cleaning—it is about emotional attachment, grief, and identity.

This week, episode 309 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast explores why sentimental clutter hits differently and how to navigate the process of letting go without rushing your heart.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share why you do not have to get rid of anything to be successful and how to use decluttering as a tool for healing rather than a source of guilt.

Key Takeaways:

Understand Emotional Attachment: Objects often serve as buffers or anchors to meaningful versions of ourselves and those we love.
Honor Your Own Timeline: Grief and decluttering have no expiration date; you are ready to decide when you feel ready, not when someone else says so.
The Maybe Rule: If a decision feels like a maybe, it is a keep. The cost of letting go too soon is often higher than the value of the space gained.
Identify Obligation: Recognize if you are keeping an item for yourself or because you feel a betrayal of a relationship.
Shift to Curation: Learn how to reduce a collection to its most meaningful pieces rather than keeping every single item.
Use Strategic Deferment: Tools like the Maybe Box or macro decluttering allow you to take back your living space while buying time for harder decisions.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Declutter Workshop

Declutter Playlist

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Declutter Your Calendar for Better Time Management

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

We treat our calendars like containers to fill, but a packed schedule often works against us. While we spend significant time deciding what to add, we rarely consider the importance of protecting the space itself. Your calendar tells a story about what you’ve said yes to, and this episode helps ensure you leave sufficient room for what actually matters. This week, episode 308 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about is about decluttering your calendar to reduce mental noise and reclaim your time!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how to audit your current schedule and implement strategies to prevent "obligation creep" from crowding out your true priorities.

Key Takeaways:

View empty space not a waste or an inefficiency, but a necessary part of a functional system that allows you to breathe and focus.
Shift from seeing only open slots to acknowledging the energy, planning, and recovery time every commitment actually requires.
Review your schedule one week at a time and honestly ask if each event still serves a purpose you value or if you would add it today.
You don't always have to delete to declutter; consider declining, renegotiating, or moving items to a more appropriate tool like a to-do list.
Protect your work by building in buffer time for transitions and budgeting for the full task, including prep and follow-up.
The secret to a sustainable calendar is knowing your minimum effective day in advance so you always know what to protect first when things go sideways.

My invitation to you is to start small. Review your schedule for next week and find one item to remove or move. See how it feels to have room to breathe for once.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Declutter Episodes

Ep 273 How to Make Time Blocking Fun

Ep 306 Planning a Day That Works for You

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Why Work Sprints Are Better Than Marathons

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

We’ve been conditioned to think that more time equals more output. This might make sense on the surface, but in reality, this burnout-inducing approach degrades your performance and increases your stress rather than improving your results. This week, episode 307 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why work sprints are better than marathons!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing a work sprint method that allows you to stop working against your neurology and start producing higher-quality work in less time.

Key Takeaways:

Science shows that working in focused, fully committed bursts followed by deliberate recovery periods improves concentration, decision-making, and the overall quality of your output.
Just like in HIIT fitness, recovery in productivity isn't a "reward" you haven't earned. By adopting "structured sprints" based on Agile methodology, you prioritize efficiency and continuous improvement over rigid, undefined work periods.
The Pomodoro Technique is a simple way to start sprinting. Work for 25 minutes with full focus, followed by a 5-minute break, to train your brain to expect both focus and rest.
Identify your natural "window of peak cognitive performance" during the day and protect that time specifically for your high-intensity work sprints.

The secret to sustainable productivity isn't finding more hours in the day; it's honoring the energy you have within those hours. My invitation to you today is simple: Pick one task, set one timer, and try just one sprint.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Ep 215: Why You Need to Know Your Internal Productivity Rhythm

Ep 271: How to Stop Avoiding Tasks

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Planning a Day That Works for You

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Traditional planning advice doesn’t take real life into consideration. It assumes we have endless energy, zero interruptions, and the motivation to do it all. When we follow this advice, the act of planning itself becomes a source of stress rather than a solution, making it feel like we’re up against a mountain we can't climb. That’s why this week, on episode 306 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m tossing aside the “hustle harder” productivity idea and introducing a burnout-proof alternative so you can plan a day that works for you.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m introducing the Minimum Effective Day (MED) approach to planning so you can do less with intention, focus on what’s truly essential, and create a more sustainable and effective daily rhythm.

Key Takeaways:

Strip away your aspirational tasks and identify your three “must-dos” for the day.
Treat basic needs (hydration, movement, rest, etc.) as critical elements of your plan, rather than luxuries.
Plan for a moment of joy or relief to embrace your humanity.
Anchor your day with one protected block of time to protect your day’s center of gravity.
Interrupt the cycle of self-criticism by defining what “enough” looks like and allowing yourself the grace to end the day without finishing everything.

Remember, you are a person, not a productivity machine. You can find the Minimum Effective Day mini-training at positivelyproductive.com/resources

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Build Habits You Can Keep

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Does this sound familiar? You start a new routine with the best of intentions, only to have it vanish the moment your schedule shifts or your energy drops. So many of us struggle with habit failure, often blaming a lack of discipline or willpower. I am here to tell you that’s not always the case, and there is something you can do about it! This week, episode 305 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about building habits you can keep.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I explore why many productivity systems fail (they are built for ideal conditions rather than the reality of actual life) and give you actionable advice to start building personalized habits that actually stick.

Key Takeaways:

Instead of building habits for your best days, create versions that fit your typical energy levels; consistency matters far more than intensity.
Habits feel like constant resistance if they conflict with who you are; your routines should reflect your unique nature and deep-seated "why".
Life is constantly fluctuating; give yourself permission to adjust your habits rather than abandoning them entirely.
By removing obstacles in your environment and making the "start" of a habit as easy as possible, you dramatically increase your chances of following through.

Which habit in your life currently feels like a struggle? Ask yourself: "Does this habit fit the life I'm actually living right now, or does it only fit the 'ideal' version?" I encourage you to pick one habit this week and shrink it down until it feels "too easy" to fail. That’s where you need to start to succeed!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Habits Podcast Playlist

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Journaling to Help You Move Forward

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Ep 303: How Action Gives Us Clarity

Journaling is often framed as a tool for reflection, emotional processing, or deep introspection. And while these approaches can be incredibly valuable, they’re not the only way that journaling can support you. Journaling can also function as a decision-making and clarity tool, especially when your brain feels noisy, conflicted, or mentally stuck. This week, episode 304 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to use journaling to help you move forward!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m exploring how you can use journaling as a practical tool to take action so that you can turn your mental noise into visible, actionable information that helps you start doing.

I cover the following topics:

How moving thoughts from your working memory to a visual surface reduces cognitive load and creates immediate mental relief.
Why high-speed practical journaling is often more effective for forward momentum than traditional, deep reflective writing.
Using the mind sweep technique to clear out general mind clutter before attempting to use journaling for complex problem solving.
A series of specific journal prompts designed to bypass your inner critic and identify the smallest, most workable step forward.

Clarity doesn't come from thinking harder; it comes from getting your thoughts out of your head so you can process them. Your journal is the bridge between being overwhelmed and being in motion.

For the resources mentioned, head to positivelyproductive.com/resources. And if you’re interested in a coaching session with me, you can find more details at positivelyproductive.com/coaching.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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How Action Gives Us Clarity

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500

If you’re an overthinker and overanalyzer like me, you already know how difficult taking action can be. You also know the frustrating feeling of not taking action because you simply cannot decide what to do. But here’s the twist. Sometimes you have to pull an Uno Reverse card on your brain because sometimes, it’s the action itself that brings the clarity you were trying to find. This week, episode 303 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how action gives us clarity!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing why your brain gets stuck in analysis paralysis and how you can break the loop of overthinking to move forward and gain clarity along the way.

Key takeaways:

Feeling stuck is often a result of your brain not having enough data to make a decision; taking a small step can provide the feedback your brain needs to resolve uncertainty.
Analysis paralysis is often driven by perfectionism, and recognizing this as the barrier it is allows you to prioritize action over a flawless (but non-existent) plan.
We are taught that clarity must precede action, but often, it is the action itself that creates the clarity you’ve been searching for.

Clarity isn't always something you find; sometimes, it’s something you create through movement. I encourage you to find the one "smallest safe step" you can take today to move past a decision that has you stuck.

If you need help quieting the mental noise before you dive into action, check out the Guided Mind Sweep on the resources page atpositivelyproductive.com/resources.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Start Here: Shame-Free Productivity That Works for Real Life

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 20:00:00 -0500

What if you could get more done without doing more, burning out, or blaming yourself for struggling?

The Positively Living® Podcast brings you shame-free productivity conversations for the overwhelmed multi-passionate creatives, caregivers, and multi-taskers who never clock out, juggle countless responsibilities, and quietly wonder if there’s a better way.

Hosted by Lisa Zawrotny, Productivity + Life Coach and founder of Positively Productive Systems, the show replaces rigid productivity rules with flexible approaches that respect your energy and priorities. Through solo episodes, expert interviews, and live coaching sessions, Lisa covers the topics that actually affect your ability to move forward: stress management, habits and systems, decluttering, self-awareness, boundaries, mindset, entrepreneurship, and more.

This is productivity for real life, helping you breathe easier, move forward sustainably, and make space for what matters most to you.

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Five Simple Ways to Treat Yourself Better

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 301: Why Self-Compassion Matters More Than You Think

If you have ever felt like you should be treating yourself better but have no idea where to start, or maybe the idea of being nice to yourself feels strange, you’re not alone. Many of us struggle with a harsh internal monologue, feeling isolated in our stress or trapped by rigid societal expectations. That’s why, in this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I am sharing five simple ways to treat yourself better!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I show you how you can move from the theory of self-compassion to practical, daily application, reducing shame along the way.

The five tips I cover in this episode include:

Audit your internal monologue by first noticing how you speak to yourself in times of stress.
Practice needs-based self-compassion, understanding it as an indulgence.
Listen to your body’s signals of depletion and take them as a sign to regulate your nervous system.
Embrace common experiences, reminding yourself that you’re not alone in how you feel.
Utilize permission statements, allowing yourself to show up imperfect, change your mind, or set limits.

Self-compassion isn't built through grand gestures; it’s built through small moments of noticing and recalibrating. This week, don't try to master all five techniques. Instead, choose one single practice, try it for a few days and see what unfolds.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

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Why Self-Compassion Matters More Than You Think

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 189: Why Compassion is Essential to Be More Productive

So many of us are quick to say things like, “I need to be kinder to myself,” and I think we truly believe that. But the minute we fail to get something done, lose track of time, or struggle, our inner voice turns harsh. For us high achievers, especially, this is an unfortunate natural reaction. The problem is that we don’t realize how much that critical inner voice is costing us. This week, episode 301 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why self-compassion matters more than you think!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m diving into why the “try harder” mentality often backfires, and I give you actionable steps to take right now to practice self-compassion as the necessary foundation for true productivity and emotional regulation.

Key takeaways:

Self-compassion isn’t a vague feeling; it’s a system of self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness.
While self-awareness is the ultimate productivity tool, self-compassion is the environment that makes those tools work.
Your brain interprets self-criticism as a threat, triggering increased cortisol and bodily tension. In contrast, self-compassion helps regulate your nervous system.
Self-compassion is not about lowering your standards but about being honest without being cruel, making it more likely that you’ll take responsibility and repair mistakes.
Self-compassion is a skill that can be practiced and developed over time, even if it feels unnatural at first.

Self-compassion isn't about being nice to yourself when things are going perfectly; it’s about how you respond in the moments you lose momentum or fail to meet the plan. This week, try to simply notice your inner dialogue without trying to fix it. Awareness without judgment is your first step toward a more resilient life.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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300 Episodes In: How Positively Living Works for Your Life

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

For more episodes and playlists, visit the podcast page of my website!

Productivity is best when it’s shame-free and done in a way that honors your life. That is the message I started this podcast with, and it remains true 300 episodes later. Yes, you read that right. Today we’re celebrating 300 episodes of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast. And joining me to commemorate this landmark episode is my friend and podcast producer, Alesia Galati, as we flip the script and she interviews me. In our conversation, we reflect on my journey of podcasting and how listeners can make the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast work for their lives.

Alesia and I cover the following topics:

Expressing gratitude for the achievements this podcast has hit.
Reflecting on the impact of this podcast through listener reviews.
Taking a look at how this podcast has evolved and where it’s headed in the future.
How to use this podcast as a tool for productivity (without the overwhelm).
Five things you may not know about me.

As we celebrate 300 episodes–and 10 years of Positively Productive Systems, the business behind the podcast–I want to thank you, because you are what makes this possible. Whether you’ve been here from the start or just started listening, your support means the world to me.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Ep 299: 10 Lessons to Celebrate 10 Years of Positive Productivity

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10 Lessons to Celebrate 10 Years of Positive Productivity

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

In honor of a huge milestone —10 years of the business behind the podcast—I am reflecting on the last 10 years and the conversations I've had with clients, listeners, and my fellow multi-passionate entrepreneurs. So today in episode 299 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, instead of focusing on one topic, I’m celebrating by sharing 10 lessons of positive productivity that I’ve learned over the last decade.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m focusing on 10 lessons that connect to the same theme: productivity isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. You must find what works for you and honor that.

The 10 lessons I cover in this episode include:

Productivity is personal, not universal.
Fluctuating energy is normal. Plan for it.
Good enough beats perfect.
Decluttering is a whole-life practice.
Rest is not a reward; it’s a requirement.
Joy fuels productivity.
Shame is the worst motivator.
Systems don’t need to be complicated.
Let the season you’re in guide your choices.
Start where you are, grow as you go.

I want to celebrate with you! Find me on social media and message me, sharing what you’re celebrating today—big or small—and if this episode resonated with you, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or a rating on Spotify to help others join this important conversation.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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How Your Strengths & Personality Can Be Your Advantage

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 1: The #1 Tool to Achieve Productivity

If you’ve listened to the podcast before, you know that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to productivity. So if you feel like you’re constantly fighting against your own brain, forcing yourself to use productivity systems that just don’t stick, and feeling overwhelmed in trying to be disciplined, you’ve likely been trying to operate in systems that weren’t designed for your unique wiring. This week, on episode 298 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I am continuing my special series guiding you through my Positively Productive Toolkit and talking about how your strengths and personality can be used to your productivity advantage.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share why self-awareness is your number one productivity tool and outline how you can use my Assessments Workbook to help you quit forcing strategies that don’t fit and start choosing the habits and tools that support you.

The assessments I cover in this episode include:

The Big Five (OCEAN): Think of this as your trait blueprint, measuring 5 broad traits (Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism) on a spectrum.
The Four Tendencies: This framework by Gretchen Rubin categorizes you as an Upholder, Questioner, Obliger, or Rebel based on how you handle inner and outer expectations, revealing your natural motivation style.
VIA Strengths: Unlike performance-based tests, this identifies your top character strengths and uncovers which qualities you naturally express to help you lean into what is already strong and meaningful within you.
16 Personalities: Considered a modern version of the Myers-Briggs test, this assesses how you instinctively think, relate, and connect with the world.

Your strengths, personality, and tendencies are not obstacles to overcome. Rather, they are your greatest advantages. Stop trying to fit into someone else's system and start designing a life that fits you.

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Ep 88: Play to Your Strengths with Julia de'Caneva

Ep 181: How to Improve Your Productivity Using the Four Tendencies

Ep 267: How the Big 5 Personality Quiz Helps You Achieve More

Ep 268: Build Strong Habits Based On Your Personality

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The Joy List: Your Key to Self-Care

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 241: Why Being Cozy Can Make You More Productive

Many of us struggle with the guilt of taking time for ourselves, often viewing self-care as a luxury we can only afford once everything else is done. But here’s the truth: when we neglect ourselves, we welcome exhaustion, resentment, and burnout. This week, on episode 297 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I am continuing my special series guiding you through my Positively Productive Toolkit, with the key to self-care: the Joy List.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m diving into my Joy List, reframing self-care not as an indulgence, but as essential maintenance for your mind and body, helping you map your way back to yourself through the science of positive emotions and the art of “compassionate productivity.”

Key takeaways:

Self-Care as Energy Maintenance: Why joy is a biological necessity to expand your mental lens, foster creativity, and help you recover from stress faster.
The Science of Nervous System Regulation: How small "glimmers" of joy act as cues to shift you out of "fight or flight" and into a state where you can solve problems with clarity.
The Overlap of Values and Joy: Whether you value connection, beauty, or freedom, identifying specific joyful activities makes your values tangible and actionable.
The Sliding-Scale Approach: Three levels of joy so you can practice self-care, no matter how busy you are.

Your joy is not a frivolous "extra", it’s the fuel that keeps you whole. This week, start by identifying three quick ways you can sprinkle joy into your day. Whether it’s listening to a favorite song or taking three deep breaths outside, notice how your energy shifts when you choose yourself.

Haven’t downloaded your Positively Productive Toolkit yet? You can find it at positivelyproductive.com/PLPKit

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Ep 204: Why Bringing Nature Inside Will Help You Focus Better with Kasey Riley

Ep 296: Core Values: A Foundation of Sustainable Productivity

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Core Values: A Foundation of Sustainable Productivity

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 293: Simple Filters to Help You Make Decisions

So many of us struggle with “productivity shame”-- the feeling that we’re failing because we can’t stay consistent. Maybe our systems and schedules look good on paper, but leave us feeling exhausted, guilty, or burnt out. The truth? Our daily actions are in a constant tug-of-war with our souls. This week, on episode 296 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I am kicking off a special series guiding you through my Positively Productive Toolkit, starting with the foundational element of sustainable productivity: core values.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing how you can identify the fundamental beliefs that guide your behavior and how to use them as a “filter” to sift through the noise of the world.

Key Takeaways:

Your values are the ultimate decision-maker for feeling grounded (instead of drained) in your efforts.
Resistance and inconsistency are often linked to a lack of alignment.
Learn how to narrow a list of ideals into five essential anchor values that represent your most authentic self.
Shift your perspective from who you “should” be to who you actually are, allowing you to create a life that honors your energy and capacity.

Your productivity should support your life, not the other way around. Haven’t downloaded your Positively Productive Toolkit yet? You can find it at positivelyproductive.com/PLPKit

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Starting the New Year with Less Stress

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 291: How Slowing Down Makes You More Productive

Are you already feeling the “New Year, New You” burnout before January is even over? The pressure to set massive resolutions, hit the ground running, and overhaul your entire life on January 1st is a recipe for overwhelm. If you’re feeling more like you need a nap than a marathon, you’re not alone, and you’re not failing. This week on episode 295 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m introducing you to a gentler, sustainable approach so you can start the new year with less stress.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m ditching the concept of an arbitrary date on the calendar that dictates our fresh start and giving you actionable steps to take right now to reach your goals at a pace that actually respects your energy and capacity.

I cover the following topics:

Embrace the phrase, “start as you mean to go on,” or in other words, choose a starting speed that you can maintain.
Take an intentional pause to reflect and move forward in the right direction.
Conduct a self-assessment to understand your energy drains, capacity, and current needs.
Consider broad intentions over rigid goals to support your overall well-being.

Ready to build a year that actually fits your life? Download my free Productivity Toolkit at positivelyproductive.com/plpkit and follow along as we dive into these workbooks in the coming weeks!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 293: Simple Filters to Help You Make Decisions

Ep 239: How to Choose a Word of the Year

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2025 Recap: My Favorite Productivity Tips for Real Life

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

2025 Recap Episodes Playlist

While every year asks so much of us, it seems 2025 has asked us to stretch and adapt more than usual. We’ve had to keep showing up even when things felt uncertain and just downright exhausting. That’s why throughout the year, I’ve encouraged you to rethink what productivity looks like. Because when life is happening in real time, adding more pressure to be productive is a fast track to burnout.

As I reflect on the conversations we had on the podcast this year, what stands out most isn’t any single tip or tool; it’s that we talked about productivity in a way that honors real life. That’s why in episode 294 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I am recapping these conversations by sharing my favorite productivity tips for real life.

Key takeaways:

Your nervous system is part of your productivity system.
Systems matter more than motivation or willpower.
Doing less is often the most productive move.
Shame is the biggest productivity block.
Presence matters more than output.
Small, supportive steps create real change.

As you head into the new year, I want you to remember that you don’t need to do more to be successful; you need systems that honor who you are.

You can find all of the supporting episodes in the 2025 Recap Episodes Playlist.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Simple Filters to Help You Make Decisions

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 136: Reflections Instead of Resolutions

One of the most common things I hear from clients and listeners isn’t “I don’t know what to do,” it’s “I can’t decide what to do.” We know what’s on our overwhelming task list, but prioritizing, selecting, and making sure we’re doing the right thing at the right time is exhausting. Decision fatigue is real and can lead to burnout faster than you realize. This week, on episode 293 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing five simple filters to help you make decisions!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I explain why decision fatigue is the silent battery drainer of your life and share five simple filters you can use to make decisions without burning yourself out.

The five filters I cover in this episode include:

Choosing a word of the year as your big-picture lens for assessing every decision.
Using theme days and time blocks to create “buckets” for your tasks.
Acknowledging the season of life you’re in and adjusting your expectations to match.
Checking in on your physical, emotional, and mental bandwidth before making a commitment (matching your energy to the task).
Living your values (values in action) and aligning what you do and when to reflect what truly matters.

You don’t have to reinvent the wheel every time you have to choose. By setting up these simple filters, you can stop spinning your wheels and start focusing on what truly matters. If you need help identifying your values or understanding your energy, head to positivelyproductive.com/PLPKit and grab your FREE Productivity Toolkit.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Ep 239: How to Choose a Word of the Year

Ep 245: Themes: The Simple Time Management Trick You Need

Ep 124: [Strategy Call] Using School Themes to Time Block with Lauren Yee

Ep 125: [Strategy Call] Follow Up to School Style Time Blocking with Lauren Yee

Ep 291: How Slowing Down Makes You More Productive

Ep 279: Why You Must Support Your Nervous System

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Finish Your Year Burnout Free

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 291: How Slowing Down Makes You More Productive

The end of the year brings a very unique kind of pressure. We’re closing out projects, preparing for new ones, finalizing finances, coordinating schedules, attending events, and trying to wrap up the year in ways that feel meaningful and productive. And all of that’s on top of our already busy schedules and the added layer of the holidays. As if that isn’t already a recipe for burnout, for those in the northern hemisphere, this happens in a season when our energy naturally dips. So how do we survive (and hopefully thrive) during this time of year? This week, episode 292 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about finishing your year burnout-free!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I cut through the “hustle culture” myth and teach you how to honor your seasonal energy by slowing down and speeding up strategically to ensure you finish the year feeling grounded, not drained.

I cover the following topics:

The productivity paradox: working longer hours quickly leads to burnout, not increased results.
Strategic and seasonal approaches to slow down, without stopping, and honor your capacity.
A two-part strategy to finish the year burnout-free: reducing capacity and applying intentional sprinting for essential tasks.

Remember: your worth is not measured by the number of commitments you complete before December 31st. Don't collapse at the finish line. Instead, choose a grounded, gentle finish that allows you to start the new year rested and ready.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Ep 290: End Overwhelm Through Intentional Scheduling with Naomi Lerman (Strategy Call)

Ep 236: Make Your Holiday Season Less Stressful with the 80/20 Principle

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How Slowing Down Makes You More Productive

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Are you constantly working faster, yet still feeling behind and burned out? Many of us get trapped in this unsustainable hustle culture cycle because we assume that productivity means doing more, faster. But what if the secret to achieving sustainable results and regaining clarity isn't to hit the gas, but to tap the brakes? This week, episode 291 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how slowing down makes you more productive!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing how strategically slowing down can dramatically increase your focus, reduce mistakes, and prevent overwhelm. I highlight two powerful forms of slowing down so you can work smarter, not harder.

I cover the following topics:

How slowing your pace can actually make you go faster, make fewer mistakes, and produce better quality output.
Simple and effective ways to embrace the power of the pause in an otherwise nonstop world.
How you can slow down by reducing demands using the generator principle.
Why the two sides of slowing down work together to create productivity magic.

Regardless of the path you decide, slowing down means choosing a sustainable, grounded, and deeply effective productivity approach that prioritizes your needs while still helping you get where you want to go.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Ep 274: Manage Your Time Better with Proper Transitions

Ep 284: How to Protect Your Peace This Holiday Season

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End Overwhelm Through Intentional Scheduling with Naomi Lerman [Strategy Call]

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 12:00:00 -0500

Many of us multi-passionates find ourselves in a constant battle of overwhelm and the draining feeling of having too much to do with too little time to do it. This is exactly how Naomi Lerman felt when she came to me seeking support with her decision fatigue and chaotic context switching while building her purpose-led business and raising her family. This week's episode 290 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is a strategy call where I help Naomi Lerman end overwhelm through intentional scheduling.

Naomi Lerman is a certified trauma-informed coach and founder of Victory Dance Coaching and the Victory Dance Method. A survivor and performer, she helps women heal from sexual trauma without reliving the past, reconnecting mind, body, and soul to build safety, joy, and self-trust. Through coaching, movement, and practical daily tools, Naomi guides clients to reclaim their voice, design aligned lives, and celebrate bold, embodied freedom.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, you’ll see how I coach Naomi to create a truly value-aligned schedule by leveraging her innate strengths and unlocking the core mindset shifts needed to foster ease, harmony, and self-worth.

Naomi and I cover the following topics:

Understanding how personality, strengths, and values impact productivity.
The critical mindset shift of acknowledging and honoring the season of life you’re in.
Adopting the full task approach by bookending each task with prep and processing time.
Broadening your capacity scope to look beyond the weekly calendar.
Implementing an intentional closeout routine at the end of each day.

The ultimate goal of productivity is not simply getting more done, but reaching the end of the day without questioning your worth. Ready to book a Clarity Call of your own? Head to https://positivelyproductive.com/plpclarity to get started.

CONNECT WITH NAOMI LERMAN:

Email: victorydancecoaching@gmail.com

Struggling to Prioritize When Everything Feels Urgent

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

How the Big 5 Personality Quiz Helps You Achieve More

Tackle Your To Do List in Four Simple Steps (4Ds Framework)

Manage Your Time Better with Proper Transitions

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Where Your To-Do List Trips You Up

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Tackle Your To-Do List in Four Simple Steps

Are you constantly battling a massive to-do list that leaves you feeling guilty and behind before you even start? What's meant to be a helpful tool for productivity often becomes a major source of stress and overwhelm. The reason? You’re working from the wrong list. This week, episode 289 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about where your to-do list trips you up!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m unpacking why your brain dump list is not your to-do list (and how viewing it as such is sabotaging your success) and sharing actionable steps you can take right now to transform your chaotic list into a focused guide that works for you.

I cover the following topics:

Why the traditional to-do list leads to analysis paralysis and stress.
Why starting with a Guided Mind Sweep to get everything out of your head is essential, though not enough.
How to avoid the task list pitfalls with the 4Ds Framework for task processing: Delete, Delegate, Delay and Do.

It’s time to take back control. Stop letting your overflowing list be the boss! True productivity isn't about doing more, it’s about doing what matters most with clarity.

Download the Guided Mindsweep for FREE at positivelyproductive.com/resources

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Using the 80-20 Principle to Leverage a Better Life

Make Your Holiday Season Less Stressful with the 80-20 Principle

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How Practicing Gratitude Can Make You Happy

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Gratitude Podcast Playlist

Practicing genuine gratitude is often overlooked because it’s such a familiar term that it's become a bit of a throwaway idea, popping up on every self-care list and journal prompt. It’s also become the unofficial theme for November, with quotes, signs, and all manner of reminders to “be grateful” without understanding the context. But beneath all of the hype is a truly transformational practice. This week, episode 288 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how practicing gratitude can make you happy.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m cutting through the “toxic positivity” and self-help hype to reveal the link between practicing gratitude and finding happiness, and giving you actionable steps to take right now to rewire your brain for a more positive outlook.

I cover the following topics:

The science behind your gratitude practice, including the Reticular Activating System (RAS) and neuroplasticity, that work together to train your brain to seek out the good.
Clarifying what gratitude is (and what it's not), especially in contrast to mindset trends like toxic positivity.
Three effective methods to deepen your appreciation beyond simple gratitude lists.
Additional resources for continued learning and habit building include the Positively Grateful Series Bundle.

Stop waiting for happiness to find you and start cultivating it today. Try one method or approach this week and take note of the change in your focus. Watch how your reality shifts when you intentionally look for the good.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 137

Positively Grateful Series Bundle

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Pursue an Intentionally Happy Life with Julie Leonard [Re-release]

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

It's far too easy to get caught up in a relentless cycle of stress and negative thinking in the world we live in. You want to feel calm, resilient, and finally break free from that stuck loop of worry, but where do you start? On this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I am joined by happiness coach Julie Leonard to discuss a path that leads to less overwhelm and a more intentionally happy life.

Julie Leonard is a life coach, author, and self-proclaimed happiness evangelist based in Munich, Germany. After overcoming her own challenges with anxiety and a negative inner dialogue, Julie dedicated her career to understanding and sharing the science of happiness. With a background in psychology and experience in mental health, she specializes in helping women change limiting beliefs and negative thinking into positive action. Her mission is to share practical tools and knowledge to help people navigate life and live a more intentionally happy life, focusing on what is truly within their control.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Julie shares how happiness isn’t just about avoiding struggle but about building the internal tools to handle what life throws at you. Our conversation provides you with actionable advice you can take today to cultivate resilience and live a more proactive, positive life.

Julie and I cover the following topics:

The difference between stress and distress.
Identifying what true happiness looks like, separate from external validation or material gain.
The societal and cultural messages that lead us to seek outward solutions for an inward problem.
Practical strategies for taking back control and living a more intentional and happier life.

You have more control over your happiness than you think. Now is the time to embrace that control and commit to building your own resilience toolkit.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Self-Care Podcast Playlist

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 41 (Original Episode)

Ep 197

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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When Doing It All Doesn't Work

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Are you a high achiever or multi-passionate caregiver feeling completely drained? Maybe you used to juggle work, family, and passions with ease, but now your once-achievable "do it all" goal is leaving you exhausted, resentful, and scattered. If you're constantly searching for a way to manage your overwhelming to-do list, you’re not alone, and I am here to help. This week, episode 286 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about what to do when doing it all doesn’t work!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m diving into the “do it all” trap, breaking down the psychology why we feel compelled to take on so much and giving you actionable steps to take right now to shift out of this perpetual state of overdrive to a place of sustainable success and true productivity.

I cover the following topics:

Why high achievers and multi-passionates especially fall into the allure of “doing it all.”
The damaging cost of “doing it all” and the telltale signs that you’re on the road to burnout.
Essential steps to shift from doing it all to doing what matters.
How to process the grief of letting go of an old identity and redefine success.

You are not meant to do it all; you are meant to do what matters most. The strength for thriving comes from knowing and honoring your limits.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 53

Ep 206

Ep 284

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Why Men's Mental Health Matters with Tim Beisiegal

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Funny Science Fiction Podcast

Are you struggling to support the men in your life—your husband, sons, partner, or father—who feel the pressure to be strong, stoic, and silent? Do you watch them struggle, knowing the cultural expectation to suck it up keeps them from seeking the help they need? Outdated ideas about masculinity create significant barriers, often leading men to dismiss their own emotional needs as a weakness. This week, episode 285 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why men’s mental health matters!

In this powerful episode of the Positively Living Podcast, host Lisa Zawrotny revisits a vital, deeply needed conversation with Tim Beisiegel to challenge the stigma around men's emotional well-being.

Tim Beisiegel is a married man and father of three, who discovered a passion for podcasting as a crucial outlet for social connection and sanity during a time of intense family health struggles. Tim is the host of the Funny Science Fiction Podcast, where he indulges his love for all things sci-fi and pop culture.

Tim and I cover the following topics:

Courage is Asking for Help
Understand Trauma is Shared
Submission to Help is a Strength
Start the Conversation, Don't Stop
Finding the Right Counselor May Take Time

CONNECT WITH TIM BEISIEGEL:

Ending The Stigma Podcast

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

IMPORTANT LINKS AND RESOURCES:

SAMHSA.GOV

Psychology Today

The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel VanDerKolk

It Didn’t Start With You by Mark Wolynn

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottleib

Authors: Melody Beattie, Anne Lamott, Brene Brown

Episode 4 The Power of Gratitude

Episode 7 The Impact of Stress and How to Manage it for Good

Episode 14 How We Grow through Grief with Katie Rossler

Episode 29 Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Protect Your Peace This Holiday Season

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

If you’re anything like me, you know the holiday season is coming, and yet, it somehow always feels like it sneaks up on you, trading your joy for what feels like an impossible to-do list. What follows is a feeling of overwhelm, exhaustion, and stress, even when good things are happening. The gap between the “picture-perfect” ideal and our chaotic reality leaves us depleted and in recovery mode as the new year rolls around. But it doesn’t have to be this way! This week, episode 284 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to protect your peace this holiday season.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing simple, practical, and compassionate ways to set healthy boundaries, manage high expectations, and guard your mental energy so you can truly enjoy the holiday season without losing yourself in the process.

I cover the following topics:

Three reasons why the holiday season comes with so much added stress.
The cost of not setting limits around your time and energy.
Four practical strategies for protecting your peace during the holiday season.
A cozy bonus tip to reduce stress and regulate your nervous system.

Protecting your peace is an act of self-care that allows you to show up for what truly matters. I encourage you to take back the joy of your holiday season by choosing intention over obligation.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Trusting Yourself to Make the Right Choice [Re-Release]

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Entrepreneur Women Unified FB Group

The secret to success isn’t avoiding failure; it’s learning to trust your gut when everyone else says “no.” All too often, we feel isolated, struggle with overthinking, and let the fear of failure hold us back.

In this replay episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Gwen Austin joins to reveal her journey of launching an online community of thousands overnight by following her inner knowing and shares how you can trust yourself to make the right choice in your own endeavors.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Gwen Austin shares the importance of following the path that feels authentic to you, no matter how scary it may feel, and actionable steps you can take right now to identify that genuine gut feeling and find what feels right for you.

Gwen and I cover the following topics:

Rediscovering your childhood instinct to fall down and get back up.
Learning to let your brain “get out of the way” and act on your intuition.
Cultivating a supportive community of people to cheer you on and help you believe in self-trust.
Embracing the flow of change and taking bite-sized steps that keep the forward momentum going.

Ask yourself: What is one small step you can take today to follow your gut and move past a fear of failure? Remember, there's enough room for all of us to succeed.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH GWEN AUSTIN:

Gwen Austin Studios

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Episode 66

Episode 216 with Valerie Friedlander

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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When Productivity Isn't Good for You

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Stress Management Podcast Playlist

The relentless pursuit of productivity has a dark side: the pervasive and false belief that our worth is directly tied to our output. Too many of us are trapped in this cycle, feeling intense guilt whenever we rest or worry that slowing down makes us "lazy." This toxic belief system, relentlessly reinforced by hustle culture and outdated capitalist conditioning, is the most direct road to burnout and emotional exhaustion.

This week on the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I debunk the idea that “productivity is dangerous” by identifying what the danger actually is and help you cultivate a shame-free productivity approach that deeply honors your energy, values, and genuine need for restoration.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m dismantling the traditional, harmful ideas of productivity, exposing dangerous mindset traps, and giving you actionable steps to take right now to redefine productivity to be used as a sustainable, supportive tool.

I cover the following topics:

Three dangerous mindset traps that have us using productivity against ourselves.
Why traditional, rigid productivity models are harmful, especially for caregivers, chronically ill, and neurodivergent individuals.
How to shift your perspective to view productivity as a flexible tool that supports your life.

You deserve to rest simply because you are human… not because you've "earned" it. If the pursuit of being productive is making you miserable, it's time to change the rules. Choose to let go of the inherited mindset that’s keeping you stuck and start building a shame-free, compassionate productivity system that truly supports your life.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Why You Need a System for Self-Care

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

So many of us find ourselves in an all too familiar cycle: we create the perfect self-care plan, only to have it completely derailed by the unpredictability of life. Whether it’s an urgent deadline, a sick family member, or a sudden change in plans, our carefully crafted intentions fall apart, once again putting self-care on the back burner. The problem? We put too much focus on having a plan when we should shift our attention to getting the right systems in place.

This week on the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m unpacking how you can make the critical shift from a rigid self-care plan to a flexible, resilient self-care system.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing the important distinction between plans and systems, why our plans often fail, and actionable steps to take right now to create a framework that makes self-care a sustainable, non-negotiable part of your life.

I cover the following topics:

The difference between plans (static & rigid) and systems (dynamic & flexible).
How willpower and decision fatigue hold us back from making self-care a priority.
Creating a “minimum viable” self-care routine for low-energy days.
The four elements of a self-care system that work.

If you’ve struggled to stick with self-care, it’s not because you’re flawed or lazy. It’s because plans alone aren't enough. It's time to build a system that supports you not just on the good days, but on the hard ones too.

Ready to take action? Don’t forget to download the Positively Productive Toolkit to help you cultivate the self-awareness needed for the most effective habits and systems.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Episode 93

Episode 146

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Make Productivity Feel Good Again

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Have you ever had a day where you checked everything off of your to-do list but still felt unfulfilled? It’s a common conundrum (and a major source of frustration and burnout) to feel busy but not truly productive. This week on the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m diving head first into this issue. I reveal two types of productivity that, when they are both honored, can transform how you approach your work and life.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m exploring the two types of productivity: functional and emotional, encouraging you to challenge the traditional, functional-first approach to productivity and give you actionable steps you can take right now to integrate emotional productivity to make you feel like you’re truly living… beyond the to-do list.

I cover the following topics:

The difference between functional and emotional productivity.
Why we as a culture undervalue and dismiss emotional productivity.
Using emotional productivity as a powerful strategy for preventing burnout.
Practical steps and simple habits to build emotional productivity.

Let this be a reminder that productivity isn’t just about what you do but about how you feel while you’re doing it. When you honor both your functional and emotional productivity needs, you create a life that has both momentum and meaning.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 99

Ep 230

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Why You Must Support Your Nervous System

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Positively Productive Toolkit

If you’re feeling constantly on edge or overwhelmed by life’s demands, you’re not alone, and your nervous system might be the reason why! Think of the nervous system as your body’s communication highway, with messages on what to think, feel, and do traveling at hyper speed. On one side, you have your body’s "fight or flight" response, known as the sympathetic nervous system, and its essential counterpart, the "rest and digest" parasympathetic nervous system.

Both sides are equally important and, when able to balance one another out, are the key to living a healthier, more productive life! In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m talking about why you must support your nervous system for a healthier, more productive life!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing the vital role your nervous system plays as your body’s “central command center” and giving you actionable steps to take right now to regulate yourself, breaking the cycle of stress and burnout.

I cover the following topics:

Differences between the sympathetic (“fight or flight”) and parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) systems.
The physical, mental, and emotional signs of nervous system overload and its impact on your health and relationships.
The connection between chronic stress, health issues, and burnout.
Five powerful practices to support your nervous system.

Remember: Supporting your nervous system doesn’t require a complete life overhaul. Small, consistent actions can make a big difference. For more resources, visit positivelyproductive.com/toolkit and start your journey to a calmer, more productive you.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

4 Effective Ways to Prioritize Tasks

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Prioritizing tasks is a common challenge for so many of us, especially those of us who are neurodiverse and often struggle with competing demands, fluctuating energy, and the constant pull of urgency. Maybe you’re staring at a mountain of tasks where everything feels important and you have no idea where to begin. But what if, by exploring your unique tendencies, you can quiet the noise, sort through the chaos, and tackle what truly matters?

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I explore four popular methods to prioritize tasks effectively, breaking down the pros and cons of each to help you figure out which method fits you best.

I cover the following topics:

Why prioritization is essential for conserving mental energy, reducing stress, and achieving meaningful goals.
Reviewing four prioritization systems: the Eisenhower Matrix, Eat the Frog, MITs, and the A, B, C Method.
A bonus, alternative energy-based prioritization method to align tasks with your natural productivity rhythms.
Tips for experimenting with different methods, pairing them with your unique tendencies, and checking in on how they make you feel.

By finding the right prioritization system for your season of life, you can reclaim your focus and intentionally choose what matters most. For more hands-on tools, don't forget to grab the free Positively Productive Toolkit at www.positivelyproductive.com/plpkit, which includes the Assessments workbook to help you discover your tendencies and customize your productivity approach.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 252

Ep 181

Ep 215

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How Your Morning Coffee Can Help You Practice Mindfulness

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Mindfulness sounds great in theory, but sometimes it can feel like just another "should" on your to-do list—something that is too difficult or time-consuming to actually do. (And you might feel guilty for not even trying). This resistance, known as productive "friction”, keeps us from building habits that can significantly boost our happiness and well-being.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I break down the science and show you how simple and effective mindfulness can be. I share how to use everyday habits you already have as "mindfulness anchors," turning your morning coffee, a shower, or a daily walk into a powerful practice that reshapes your brain for the better.

I cover the following topics:

The surprising brain science behind mindfulness, including how it can physically rewire your brain to be happier and more resilient.
Why traditional meditation practices can create a "friction problem" that makes us less likely to build the habit.
How to use habit stacking to anchor mindfulness to routines you already have, making it simple and sustainable.
Practical examples of how to practice mindfulness with your five senses during everyday moments like drinking coffee or showering.
How practicing mindfulness can double as a gratitude practice, boosting your well-being with minimal effort.

Mindfulness doesn't require a perfect environment or a new app—it just requires a moment of awareness. The best time to practice is in the moments you're already living.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Ep 139

Ep 263

Ep 195

Atomic Habits by James Clear

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How Small Steps Create Big Change

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Episode #227 on combining and stacking habits

Have you ever dismissed a small step because it feels like it won't make a difference, or felt discouraged when you don't see immediate results? We live in a culture that glorifies big leaps and instant success, but the truth is, lasting change is built through the small, consistent choices we make every day. The biggest mistake is undervaluing these small actions, often quitting right before the magic happens.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I dive into the power of small steps and why they create big, lasting change. I share insights from foundational productivity books like The Slight Edge and Atomic Habits, and give you four simple steps to embrace consistency, build new habits, and trust the process.

I cover the following topics:

How cultural pressure for instant gratification makes us dismiss small steps and leads us to quit before we see results.
The science behind why our brains favor bad habits that offer instant rewards, while good habits with delayed benefits feel like so much work.
How the "compound effect" means that small, consistent actions accumulate into dramatically different outcomes over time, for better or for worse.
Four actionable steps to embrace small steps: reframing what "small" means, celebrating small wins, focusing on your identity, and using habit stacking.
My personal story of learning to play guitar to illustrate how small, consistent practice leads to significant skill acquisition over time.

Don't let the simplicity of a small step fool you. The small choice you make today is shaping your future self. What will your first small step be?

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson

The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy

Atomic Habits by James Clear

The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

How to Embrace Change and Uncertainty

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Does the thought of change—whether planned or unexpected—fill you with fear and a sense of paralysis? We all naturally resist change and the uncertainty it brings, often feeling like it is easier to not move at all than to make a mistake. But what if change and uncertainty were actually opportunities for growth, resilience, and personal transformation?

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I revisit this essential topic to give you simple, actionable ways to navigate change with more confidence and curiosity. Drawing from my own experiences as a podcast host, entrepreneur, and caregiver, I share five ways to manage your relationship with change so it does not derail you, but instead helps you move forward.

I cover the following topics:

How to reframe change as an opportunity for growth, even when it feels negative.
The importance of focusing on what you can control, like your mindset and self-care, when so much feels uncertain.
Why you should approach change in small, manageable steps to build momentum and allow yourself time to adapt.
How to build and use a strong support system to help you through periods of uncertainty and hardship.
The power of practicing self-compassion to stay resilient and keep moving forward through missteps and discomfort.

Change and uncertainty are inevitable, but they do not have to derail you. You have adapted before, and you will again. Which of these strategies will you take to heart today?

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Stop trying to fit into someone else’s productivity rules! Grab my free Productivity Toolkit, a collection of workbooks designed to help you explore how you work, uncover what truly matters to you, and create your very own energy-friendly systems. Get it here: www.positivelyproductive.com/plpkit

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Manage Your Time Better with Proper Transitions

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Do you jump from one task to the next feeling scattered, tense, or overwhelmed? We spend so much time planning our work that we often forget about the essential space in between. Ignoring this transition time can lead to frustration and exhaustion (which leads to burnout) and can negatively impact your life in so many ways. It's often a missing piece in your time management puzzle, but it doesn't have to be.

You can request it for free by going to https://positivelyproductive.com/transition You’ll get it delivered right to your inbox where you can listen on any device.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I discuss the power of transition time. I'll explain the science behind why our brains need buffer time to shift between different modes and share simple, actionable ways to build these transitions into your day, whether they're micro-moments or longer routines.

I cover the following topics:

Why skipping transitions takes a surprising toll on your nervous system, leading to burnout.
How our brains need time to shift from a sympathetic ("fight or flight") state to a parasympathetic ("rest and digest") state (and back again).
The importance of micro-transitions and rituals to signal change to your brain, even if it's just a deep breath or a sip of water.
Practical strategies like using physical shifts, auditory timers, and shutdown routines to make transitions intentional and effective.
A mindset shift to stop seeing transition time as wasted time and start seeing it as protective, restorative, and focus-building.

Remember, making the most of every moment doesn’t mean working every moment. Transition time isn't a luxury; it's an essential part of your productive process.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Ep 73 with Stacy Kessler

Ep 271 on Avoiding Tasks

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

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How to Make Time Blocking Fun

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Have you ever tried traditional time blocking only to find it too rigid, frustrating, or just plain boring? The one-size-fits-all approach to productivity often ignores the realities of our busy, unpredictable lives, leading to guilt and a feeling of failure when things don't go according to plan. What if you could design a time management system that is not only effective but also fun, flexible, and perfectly suited to your unique brain?

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I show you how to move past the traditional, rigid idea of time blocking and create a personalized, compassionate approach I call "flex blocking". You will discover how adding play and personality to your schedule can help you overcome resistance and achieve your goals without the frustration.

I cover the following topics:

Why traditional time blocking can feel frustrating and rigid, especially for those with high demands or low energy.
The benefits of time blocking, such as reducing decision fatigue and creating boundaries for your time.
How "flex blocking" uses fun, personalized themes and categories to make your schedule feel more like a game than a chore.
Why this approach works so well with our brains, which are wired for pattern recognition and story.
Practical steps for getting started, including how to review your week and use color coding to visualize your balance.

Ready to plan your days your way? Find a time blocking system that is fun, flexible, and truly functional for your life.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Why Stepping Back Helps You Move Forward

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Do you feel like you constantly need to push forward and that non-stop work equals peak productivity? The truth is, relentless doing often leads straight to burnout, not true effectiveness. Many of us struggle to give ourselves permission to take a break, fearing it will derail our progress.

In this re-released episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I revisit the powerful, science-backed benefits of pausing. Discover how deliberately stepping away from your work can help your mind process, rejuvenate, and reset, leading to improved focus, enhanced problem-solving, higher quality output, and reduced stress.

I cover the following topics:

The importance of pausing to improve focus and combat decision fatigue.
How stepping away from problems allows your brain to find better solutions.
Why regular breaks prevent mistakes and lead to higher quality work.
How pausing triggers your relaxation response, reducing chronic stress and improving decision-making.
The science behind why our brains need cycles of focus and rest to avoid cognitive fatigue and boost creativity.
Practical ways to incorporate pauses into your day, including timed sprints, physical movement, and mindfulness.

The next time you find yourself in a whirlwind of work, remember that a pause is not a sign of weakness; it's the very thing you need to be your most productive self.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Stop Avoiding Tasks

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Do you find yourself constantly putting off tasks, searching for distractions instead of focusing on what needs to be done? We all experience procrastination, and it's not a personal flaw. It often comes from a lack of motivation, clarity, or energy, not a lack of desire or work ethic.

This week, in episode 271 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I explore why we avoid tasks and, more importantly, how to get yourself to forge ahead. Learn practical strategies to bypass resistance and start taking action on your goals.

I cover the following topics:

How procrastination stems from factors like perfectionism, task aversion, or decision fatigue, not laziness.
Focusing on starting tasks, even using the two-minute rule for quick wins, to build momentum.
Using short sprints with timers to tackle bigger projects, making the work less daunting.
Proactively eliminating or deferring distractions like phone notifications and cluttered environments.
Rewarding yourself after completing tasks to create positive associations and boost motivation.
The option to start with a fun activity as a strategic bridge to energize yourself before less appealing tasks.

Ready to stop avoiding and start doing? Pick one strategy to try today and see how easily you can begin.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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No Cost Self-Care Tips for Chronic Illness with Amber Tresca

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Living with a chronic illness can make traditional self-care advice feel impossible or out of reach. Many struggle to prioritize their well-being when dealing with unpredictable symptoms, fatigue, and the constant demands of managing a condition. It can be hard to know what "self-care" even means when your primary focus is often just getting through the day.

This week, in episode 270 of the Positively Living Ⓡ Podcast, I sit down with Amber Tresca, an advocate and activist in the chronic illness community, to discuss practical, low-cost (or even no-cost!) self-care strategies. Amber, who lives with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), shares her insights on adapting self-care to fit your energy levels and lifestyle, helping you prioritize recovery, build resilience, and move toward a future where thriving is truly an option.

Amber Tresca is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patient who was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 1989 at the age of 16 and underwent 2-step j-pouch surgery in 1999. Today, she is a speaker, facilitator, and advocate for people with IBD and works as a medical writer and editor, focusing on patient-facing content in the digestive and rare disease spaces.

Amber and I cover the following topics:

Why self-care, especially with chronic illness, is primarily about managing your condition and supporting your future self.
How accessible self-care doesn't have to cost money; many powerful practices are free or low-cost.
Simple actions like hydrating, listening to music, or stepping outside can significantly impact your well-being.
The benefits of decluttering your physical and digital spaces, and "letting things go," to reduce mental load and stress.
Why connecting with a trusted support system and even seeking professional financial advice are important, often overlooked, forms of self-care.

Remember that even on days you feel completely disengaged, these tools will be waiting for you when you feel better. You won't always feel this way. Which of these self-care strategies will you try first to support your well-being?

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH AMBER TRESCA:

Stress Management playlist

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Declutter playlist

Self-Care playlist

Ep 24 Understanding Chronic Illness

Ep 257 The Special Nerve that Helps with Stress

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How to Be Productive Without Burning Out

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Do you constantly feel overwhelmed, equating your self-worth with endless busywork, only to end up exhausted and unfulfilled? Many of us have been conditioned by "hustle culture" to believe that constant pushing is the only path to success, leading to guilt, shame, and ultimately, burnout. This week, episode 269 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about reclaiming your worth beyond the grind!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I'm debunking the myth that hard work to your detriment is the only way to achieve your goals. I'll share how to break free from the "busy badge of honor" mentality and redefine productivity on your own terms, leading to ease and genuine fulfillment without sacrificing your well-being

I cover the following topics:

How to recognize the "busy badge of honor."
Why prioritizing your values is key to aligning your actions with your beliefs.
The importance of establishing and protecting boundaries.
How seeking and offering support can help you stay committed to your new approach.
Why practicing self-compassion and intentionality leads to effective productivity.

Ready to redefine productivity and reclaim your peace? It's time to choose what's right for you so you can do less, live more, and breathe easier.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Build Strong Habits Based On Your Personality

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Habits are essential for us to automate our lives and achieve our goals faster. However, like most things we learn about productivity, habit building is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The habits best suited for you are the ones created by understanding your unique self. This week, episode 268 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about building strong habits based on your personality!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m debunking the one-size-fits-all myth when it comes to habit building and giving you actionable steps you can take right now to understand your intrinsic motivations and develop habits that are effective and sustainable.

I cover the following topics:

The foundation for effective habit formation: self-awareness.
How to align your habits with your personal tendencies.
The importance of both inner and outer motivation.
Examples of how you can use the Big Five Personality Traits (OCEAN) assessment to develop habits that work for you.

Ready to unlock your personal productivity potential? Download the free Positively Productive Toolkit and take the Big Five personality quiz today. Your unique path to habit success starts with understanding yourself. Start your journey of personalized productivity now and watch how small, tailored changes can lead to massive personal growth.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 267: How the Big 5 Personality Quiz Helps You Achieve More

Ep 181: How to Improve Your Productivity Using the Four Tendencies

Habits Podcast Playlist

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How the Big 5 Personality Quiz Helps You Achieve More [Re-release]

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Positively Productive Toolkit

When someone hears that I’m a productivity coach, the immediate expectation seems to be that I’ll discuss planners, calendars, tasks, habits, and time management with them. While we do eventually discuss those things, they are NOT the first things we cover. I like to start with personal assessments. Why? Because the most effective and sustainable systems come from the person, not the planner, platform, or tool. And the Big 5 Personality Quiz (aka the Five Factor or OCEAN assessment) is one of my favorite places to start! This week, episode 267 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how the Big 5 Personality Quiz helps you achieve more!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing why getting to know yourself through your strengths, values, and personality (to figure out how you naturally operate) is a foundational step to achieving what you truly want in life. I provide actionable advice to leverage these traits so you can work smarter, not harder.

The Big Five personality traits are:

Openness - How open a person is to new ideas and experiences.
Conscientiousness - How goal-directed, persistent, and organized a person is.
Extraversion - How much a person is energized by the outside world.
Agreeableness - How much a person puts others' interests and needs ahead of their own.
Neuroticism - How sensitive a person is to stress and negative emotional triggers.

Take the first step towards a more productive life today! Download the free Positively Productive Toolkit and uncover personality insights that can transform how you approach work, creativity, and personal growth.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

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How Pride Makes You More Productive

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Pride is something that we, as a society, have somehow come to see as a negative, linking it to being boastful and “full of oneself,” when in reality, it simply means believing in your self-worth. When you believe in your worth, it encourages you to live authentically, which in turn, does amazing things for your goals and your life. A goal of mine is to help people step into the most authentic version of themselves so they can live in a way that aligns with their values and strengths, aka the key to a productive and positive life. This week, episode 266 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how pride makes you more productive!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share the connection between pride and productivity, offering real-life examples and giving you actionable steps to take right now to embrace your uniqueness and adapt your productivity techniques in a way that works for YOU.

I cover the following topics:

Redefining the word pride: it’s more than just boastfulness.
The neuroscience behind the connection of authenticity and productivity.
Advice on unlocking your unique productivity (with real-life examples).
The Dunning-Kruger cognitive bias (and how that might negatively impact productivity).

Remember, you are born worthy. Embrace your authentic self, take pride in your unique approach, and unlock your true potential.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 31: Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Schlabach

Ep 99: Emotions, Intuition, and Authenticity with Kristen Kubik

Ep 92: 5 Ways to Take Back Your Self-Worth with Jomana Elaridi

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Finding Your Most Productive State

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

So often, we get caught up in how we think we’re “supposed to” approach productivity– comparing ourselves to others, their routines, and their outputs, leaving us to feel like we’re falling short. Productivity isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, but when we tap into what works for us, we can achieve so much. This week, episode 265 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about finding your most productive state!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share the critical importance of understanding your unique needs for effective productivity and give you actionable steps to take right now to find your flow.

I cover the following topics:

What “flow state” is and what is scientifically happening in our brains when we enter this state of consciousness.
The distinction between a flow state and establishing a habit.
Tips to find your flow state and maximize your productivity when you’re in it.

Remember, finding your most productive state is a journey. Start small, with manageable steps, and give yourself flexibility and grace as you practice getting into a flow state. This is about discovering what works for YOU, and that may take time.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 241: Why Being Cozy Can Make You More Productive

Ep 242: A Reverse Approach to Better Achieve Your Goals

Ep 243: How Your Home Office Can Make You More Productive

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If You Change Your Morning, You Can Change Your Life with Whitney Baker

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

In the world of productivity, there is so much emphasis on morning routines, but this approach has been on overly simplistic. It doesn’t take into consideration our energy and rhythms. Whitney Baker, founder of Electric Ideas and a self-connection coach, joins me on the podcast to reframe our approach. We discuss how you can take your mornings from chaotic to intentional by taking a personalized approach that supports your energy and lifestyle. This week, episode 264 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about changing your morning to change your life!

Whitney Baker is the founder of Electric Ideas and a self-connection coach devoted to helping modern women—especially moms—reignite their inner spark. As a certified meditation teacher and experienced group facilitator, Whitney has a gift for making soulful practices feel not just accessible, but doable. She hosts the globally ranked Electric Ideas podcast, which is among the top 3% of most listened-to podcasts worldwide.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Whitney Baker shares why the traditional concept of a morning routine doesn’t work for everyone and gives you actionable steps to take right now to break free from rigid morning routines and take a more compassionate approach.

Whitney and I cover the following topics:

Why having a morning routine is important (and what to do if mornings aren’t your thing).
A key question to ask yourself to start considering what your morning routine should look like.
Why a morning rhythm, not routine, might work better for you.
Recognizing the difference between rest and rejuvenation and when to prioritize each.

Remember that a morning routine isn't about perfection or precision, but about practicing self-love and intentionality. Start small, be kind to yourself, and watch how these tiny shifts can transform your entire day.

Grab my free Productivity Toolkit, a collection of workbooks designed to help you explore how you work, uncover what truly matters to you, and create your very own energy-friendly systems. Get it here: www.positivelyproductive.com/plpkit

CONNECT WITH WHITNEY BAKER:

Electric Ideas Website (and podcast)

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

PLP Ep 210: Gratitude: One of the Simplest Habits to Improve Mental Wellbeing

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 140: How Your To-Do List is Sabotaging You (And What to Do Instead!) with Lisa Zawrotny (Electric Ideas Podcast on Spotify)

PLP Ep 215: Why You Need to Know Your Internal Productivity Rhythm

PLP Ep 227: Combining and Stacking Habits for Better Results

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Five Steps to be Present Each Day

Mon, 26 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Have you ever found yourself racing through your day, barely catching your breath, wondering where the time went? I've been there – as a multi-passionate entrepreneur, mom, and caregiver, I know how easy it is to get caught in the hustle and lose sight of what really matters.

Today, I'm diving deep into something we all talk about but rarely master: being present. I will share five practical steps that have transformed how I experience my days, helping me slow down, reconnect, and truly live – not just survive. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, constantly busy, or just craving more meaningful moments, this episode is for you.

This week, episode 263 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about 5 steps to be present each day!

We'll explore what being present really means, why it matters, and the simple strategies that will bring more awareness and joy into your daily life. Trust me, these aren't just theoretical ideas – these are real, actionable steps that I use myself and help my clients implement.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Ep 61 - Why You Must Free Yourself from the Hustle Mentality

Ep 253 - Unexpected Life Lessons 80s Movies Teach Us About Personal Growth with Chris Clews

Ep 247 - Why Being Intentional is Essential to Be Productive

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

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Why You Must Care for the Caregiver

Mon, 19 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Our natural instinct is to prioritize those who need care, not those giving the care, especially when it comes to the elderly and infirm. While that's understandable, I refuse to leave the caregiver behind.

As a repeat caregiver for elderly parents and mom of two, I’ve experienced the challenge of caring for others while also trying to care for myself.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share my story, cover the hidden toll of caregiving (and the compounding effects of stress that come with it), and offer seven essential self-care strategies for caregivers.

If you're a caregiver, remember: your well-being matters. You cannot pour from an empty cup. Start by implementing one small self-care strategy today, and recognize that taking care of yourself isn't selfish—it's necessary.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Ep 81: Boost Caregiver Resilience Through Creativity with Kate Chapman

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 34: My Caregiving and Clutter Story

Ep 37: Estate Organizing with Eileen Moynahan

Ep 155: Music as Self-Care for Caregivers with Dawn Renee

Ep 156: How to Reduce Mental Load as a Parent or Caregiver with Roxanne Ferber

Ep 180: What Stress Really Is and How to Manage It

Ep 261: Why Self-Care Will Not Fix Burnout

Joy List

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Why Self-Care Will Not Fix Burnout

Mon, 12 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

As an entrepreneur, caregiver, and productivity coach, I've learned a critical truth about burnout that most people miss. It's not just about being tired—it's about a complete system shutdown that no bubble bath can repair.

Burnout is more than occasional stress or a bad week. It's a persistent state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion that can derail your personal and professional life.

When you're experiencing burnout, simple self-care strategies like a massage or a weekend getaway become nothing more than temporary band-aids on a much deeper wound.

In this episode, I'll break down what burnout really looks like, why traditional self-care approaches fall short, and provide actionable strategies to help you recover and thrive.

Whether you're a high-achieving professional, an entrepreneur, or someone feeling overwhelmed by life's demands, understanding burnout is the first step to reclaiming your energy and passion.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Why Moms Need to Do Less with Amy Grace

Mon, 05 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Are you a mom feeling overwhelmed by the endless demands of motherhood? As a mom, entrepreneur, and productivity coach, I've lived the exhausting reality of trying to do it all—and burning out spectacularly in the process. In this eye-opening conversation with Amy Grace, we're diving deep into the modern mom's greatest challenge: how to do less without feeling like we're failing our families, our careers, or ourselves. This week, episode 260 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why moms need to do less!

Amy Grace is the compassionate voice behind the Everyday Supermoms podcast, where she interviews moms from all walks of life, sharing their stories and wisdom. She focuses on supporting mothers across the lifespan, believing that a healthy, happy mom impacts the whole world. As a mom for over 25 years and a licensed therapist in Colorado, Amy specializes in helping moms from pre-conception to empty nesting. Through her podcast, counseling, and courses, Amy is dedicated to empowering mothers to embrace their journey with resilience, confidence, and connection.

Amy Grace and I cover the following topics:

The overwhelming pressures modern moms face, including social media expectations and economic challenges
How to redefine success in motherhood beyond traditional metrics and productivity standards
Strategies for doing less while maintaining meaningful family connections and personal passion
The importance of building margin and flexibility into your daily schedule and life commitments

If you've ever found yourself drowning in to-do lists, comparing yourself to impossible social media standards, or wondering how you can possibly keep up with everything expected of you, this episode is your lifeline to sanity, purpose, and genuine joy.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH AMY GRACE:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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The Clutter Habit You Need to Break

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Have you ever felt like you finally got your clutter under control, only to have it creep back in before you know it? This week, I’m unpacking a subtle yet powerful habit that consistently undermines our decluttering efforts. It's something society often encourages, making it even harder to recognize and overcome.

It’s essential to evaluate what you bring into your life, such as evaluating the physical things, obligations/ ideas, and scheduling commitments. We are often too quick to allow these things in without considering the impact. It’s a habit that doesn’t serve us and keeps us from making space for what matters.

This week, episode 259 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about the clutter habit you need to break!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 22: Clutter Free Gift Giving with Katie Zurwaski

Ep 110: The Most Important Boundary for People Pleasers

Ep 117: How to Say No Without Feeling Guilty or Rude

Ep 235: When You Must Say No for a Less Stressful Life

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Live Better When You Release What Doesn't Serve You

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Are you drowning in physical, mental, and emotional clutter that's holding you back from achieving your goals? This episode reveals a powerful strategy for decluttering your life beyond just organizing spaces.

By exploring how to release what doesn't serve you across four critical areas—people, things, tasks, and thoughts—you’ll have actionable insights to help you create more space, reduce stress, and boost your productivity.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, caregiver, or simply someone seeking more balance, this episode offers a holistic approach to simplifying your life and focusing on what truly matters.

This week, episode 258 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about living better when you release what doesn’t serve you!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Declutter Playlist

Ep 246 - A SIMPLE™ Way to Reduce Clutter and Stress

Ep 249 - Five Energizing Habits to Make You More Productive

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

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The Special Nerve that Helps with Stress

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

This episode is not intended for medical advice. Please speak with a licensed physician and do your research on what will work best for you.

Understanding the vagus nerve is crucial for anyone seeking effective stress management and holistic wellness. This remarkable nerve, the longest of the cranial nerves, plays a pivotal role in regulating our body's stress response, connecting the brain to critical systems including the heart, lungs, and digestive tract.

By learning how to stimulate and strengthen the vagus nerve, individuals can improve their ability to switch between fight-or-flight and rest-and-digest modes, potentially reducing the risk of stress-related health issues like anxiety, high blood pressure, and chronic inflammation.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the science behind the vagus nerve, its impact on overall health, and practical techniques to enhance its function for better stress resilience and well-being. This week, episode 257 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about the special nerve that helps with stress!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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10 Tips to Help You Stress Less (Episode)

Spotify Playlist

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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10 Tips to Help You Stress Less

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Are you struggling with stress? In today’s fast-paced world, stress has become an unwelcome constant for many of us. But it doesn’t have to be an everyday thing. You can use just one of these tools to get your stress under control. This week, episode 256 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast contains 10 tips to help you stress less!

Access a printable guide of this list today at https://positivelyproductive.com/stress

Here are 10 tips to help you stress less:

Get Active: Exercise isn't just about athleticism - any physical movement can trigger stress-reducing endorphins
Laugh More: Humor is a powerful tool for releasing tension and improving mood
Nourish Yourself: Your diet directly impacts your ability to handle stress
Meditate: Calming techniques can help reset your mind and body
Set Boundaries: Learn to say no and protect your mental energy
Use Music: Tune into melodies that can lower stress hormones
Prioritize Rest: Quality sleep is crucial for stress management
Journal: Release your thoughts and create mental space
Connect with Others: Social support is a powerful stress reliever
Seek Professional Help: Don't be afraid to ask for support when needed

Take control of your stress today by choosing one strategy from this list and implementing it in your life. Remember, managing stress is a journey, not a destination. Start small, be kind to yourself, and watch as these simple techniques transform your relationship with stress.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Stress Management Playlist

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Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Love Your Home When Messy People Live There with Crystal Loveless Nerpel

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

If I had a nickel for every time someone said, “I could totally be organized if I lived alone,” I’d have a lot of nickels. I’ve felt that way, too. No matter who you live with, it’s a challenge to organize for a group, especially when they have differing views on what being organized is and how a space should look and feel. Crystal Nerpel joins us on the podcast again this week to help us find our focus, encourage flexibility, and find a system that works for everyone. After all, loving your home isn’t just about the space but the people in it with you! This week, episode 255 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to love your home when messy people live there!

Crystal Nerpel is a retired award-winning professional organizer who lives in the Dallas- Fort Worth area of Texas with her husband, children, and pets. She spends most weekdays enjoying her home and writing. She recently published her first book, Loving Your Home: Clean Up Your Focus, Not Your House. Even though Crystal is a self-proclaimed homebody, she loves the great outdoors and thinks of herself as a “country mouse” living in the big city, so most weekends, she recharges her soul by spending time at her ranch in Loving, Texas.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Crystal does a deep dive into the challenges of creating a peaceful, organized home when living with messy family members and gives you practical strategies to use for maintaining a loving environment while managing household clutter.

Crystal and I cover the following topics:

A recap of Crystal’s last podcast appearance and the importance of loving your home.
Shifting your mindset from fixing people to creating collaborative systems that work for everyone.
Developing flexible routines in place of rigid rules.
Recognizing that organizing is about creating happiness, not perfection.
Creating designated spaces that work for everyone’s needs.

Remember, a harmonious home isn't about perfect cleanliness—it's about creating a space of love, understanding, and mutual respect. Start by shifting your perspective and working together as a team.

CONNECT WITH CRYSTAL NERPEL:

Episode 35: Organize a space you love with Crystal Nerpel

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Episode 156: How to Reduce the Mental Load as a Parent or Caregiver

Episode 241: Why Being Cozy Can Make You More Productive

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Time and Task Management Best Practices [Ask Lisa]

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Guided Mind Sweep Package

Do you struggle to manage your time and tasks effectively, feeling like there is never enough time to tackle your to-do list? Does implementing new systems feel like a task all its own? As a productivity coach, my mission is to help you manage the overwhelm and find shame-free, sustainable solutions to life’s struggles. As a host, I’m excited to answer your questions and offer doable advice. This week, episode 254 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about time and task management best practices!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I challenge the traditional notion of time management by introducing a new way of approaching your tasks through energy management and I answer listener questions about time management tips and how to set up and learn new systems without getting frustrated or burned out.

I cover the following topics:

Why energy management is a more sustainable approach than time management.
How to effectively organize and prioritize your tasks.
Implementing new productivity systems without feeling overwhelmed.
Sustainable productivity strategies you can implement today.

Don’t let traditional productivity advice shame or overwhelm you. When you set up new systems to help, start small by choosing one area to organize, use what feels intuitive to you, and gradually build your productivity system your way.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Tech Tools Podcast Playlist

Ep 245: Themes: The Simple Time Management Trick You Need

Ep 69: Tackle Your ToDo List in Four Simple Steps

Ep 86: 3 Simple Systems to Organize Your Life + Business

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

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Unexpected Life Lessons 80s Movies Teach Us About Personal Growth with Chris Clews

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Have you ever noticed how everywhere around us, in songs and shows and our favorite movies, there are amazing lessons to be had? And some of the best lessons come from the ones we enjoy the most, like 80s movies! Chris Clews joins me on the podcast to illustrate how these classic films we know and love offer timeless wisdom that can be applied to our current life. This week, episode 253 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about unexpected life lessons 80s movies teach us about personal growth!

Chris Clews is a keynote speaker, author and ‘80s pop culture guy. He left his corporate marketing career of over 20 years to become a keynote speaker and author focused on the life and work lessons learned from ‘80s pop culture. As a keynote speaker, Chris has spoken to organizations including VISA, Duke Health, DHL, and more. He created the popular book series (3 volumes), The Ultimate Series on Essential Work & Life Lessons from ‘80s Pop Culture. He's passionate about animal rescue and donates a portion of the proceeds from his book sales and speaking gigs to rescues.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Chris Clews shares 3 life lessons we can take from our favorite nostalgic movies and how to apply these to our personal lives and careers.

Chris and I cover the following topics:

Insights into managing stress from everyone’s favorite karate master.
Lessons of inclusion and teamwork from a determined group of treasure-hunting kids.
A new perspective on personal growth and change from a unique group of detention-goers.

I encourage you to watch these classic movies (and others) with a new perspective and ask yourself: What life lessons are hiding in plain sight?

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!

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Ep 48: Reduce Stress and Connect More through Humor with Lisa David Olson

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Ep 55: Celebrating Wins and Lessons Learned in Life and Podcasting

Ep 56: Conquer Your Inner Critic through Play with Jeff Harry

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What to Do When Everything In Life Is Urgent [Re-release]

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Do you ever look at your to-do list and feel overwhelmed by the never-ending list of things that require your attention? Do you struggle to visualize which items take priority so you just end up doing nothing? You’re not alone. This is one of the most common reasons clients come to work with me. This week, episode 252 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about what to do when everything in life is urgent!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share why prioritization is crucial for maintaining balance and achieving meaningful progress and give you actionable steps to take right now to transform your approach to getting things done.

I cover the following topics:

Psychological barriers that keep people in a loop of reactivity instead of strategic action.
Common mistakes people make when trying to manage their tasks.
Proactive prioritization techniques to consider, including one of my favorites.
How to own your choices, no matter the outcome.

It’s time to take intentional, purposeful action. Start by decluttering your to-do list by strategically evaluating your tasks. Remember, when you don't make a choice, the choice is made for you. Prioritize intentionally and reclaim control of your time and energy.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 53: How To Tell If I'm Codependent with Mallory Jackson

Ep 116: The Most Important Boundary for People Pleasers

Ep 232: How to Prioritize Personal Time by Setting Boundaries

Ep 235: When You Must Say No for a Less Stressful Life

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Advice for Caregivers to Make Medical Visits Easier with Dr. Monique Nugent

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500

As a caregiver, navigating the healthcare system can be overwhelming, especially during hospital stays or medical emergencies. Dr. Monique Nugent, a practicing hospitalist and author of "Prescription for Admission," joins me today as she shares her expert advice on organizing information, communicating effectively with medical teams, and managing expectations to make the process easier for everyone involved. This week, episode 251 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about advice for caregivers to make medical visits easier!

Dr. Monique Nugent is a practicing hospitalist and the associate director for the Division of Hospital Medicine at South Shore Hospital in Weymouth, Massachusetts. She is the author of Prescription for Admission, a guide to navigating hospitalization with confidence and ease. With over a decade of clinical and leadership experience, she is dedicated to making healthcare equitable, safe, and accessible for all.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Dr. Monique Nugent recognizes the physical and emotional weight that caregivers carry and shares her actionable advice for how to navigate hospital stays with more ease and grace.

Dr. Monique Nugent and I cover the following topics:

The importance of organizing medical information ahead of time and how often you should update this information.
Setting clear communication expectations with healthcare teams so everyone is on the same page.
Conducting a “debrief” with family members after a hospital stay to review what happened and how to move forward.
Emphasizing the emotional challenges of caregiving and the need for caregivers to take breaks and be open to support from others.

By taking a proactive approach, organizing information, and communicating effectively, you can ensure your loved one receives the best possible care while also taking care of yourself.

CONNECT WITH DR. MONIQUE NUGENT:

Prescription for Admission

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 34: My Caregiver and Clutter Story

Ep 37: Estate Organizing with Eileen Moynahan

Ep 81: Boost Caregiver Resilience Through Creativity with Kate Chapman

Ep 155: Music as Self-Care for Caregivers with Dawn Renee

Ep 156: How to Reduce Mental Load as a Parent or Caregiver with Roxanne Ferber

Ep 221: How to Help People Dealing with Trauma and Grief with Janice Scholl

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Shame-free Productivity: The Most Effective Way To Get Things Done

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 189: Why Compassion is Essential to Be More Productive

As a compassionate, holistic productivity coach, I focus on productivity with a person-first perspective. This shame-free productivity approach prioritizes overall well-being over relentless work and self-criticism. It rejects the “hustle and grind” mentality and embraces flexibility and self-compassion. This week, episode 250 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about shame-free productivity: the most effective way to get things done!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share a sustainable, compassionate approach to productivity that releases the guilt and shame that hustle culture presents, and I describe what this could look like when implemented.

I cover the following topics:

Celebrating my journey to 250 podcast episodes (and how my own shame-free productivity approach got me there)!
Using the example of writing a book to illustrate the difference between the “hustle and grind” mentality and shame-free productivity.
Why shame-free productivity is actually the most effective approach to get things done.
The first step to practicing shame-free productivity: self-discovery.

By embracing a shame-free productivity mindset, you can achieve your goals without sacrificing your well-being. Remember to be kind to yourself, honor your needs, and celebrate every step you take. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish when you work with yourself, not against yourself!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 216: How to Let Go of Shame and Rebuild Self-Trust with Valerie Friedlander

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Five Energizing Habits to Make You More Productive

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

As a holistic productivity coach, I’ve seen repeatedly how much overall well-being impacts productivity. As a caregiver and mom, I experience it personally, too, having spent years in various states of overwhelm and exhaustion. I’ve come to realize that this is something most of us experience. So, how do we break free and find the balance? The answer: approaching productivity with energy management, not time management. This week, episode 249 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about five energizing habits to make you more productive!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how you can take a sustainable approach to productivity by practicing energy management and offer actionable steps you can take right now to tackle your to-do list without feeling drained.

I cover the following topics:

The difference between time management and energy management (and why energy management is objectively more important).
Five habits that can help you maximize your energy to help you be more productive.
Additional resources for you to dive deeper into energy management and personalize it.

Remember, rest is productive and taking care of yourself is the key to showing up as your best self. By prioritizing energy management over strict time management, you can create a more sustainable and vibrant life.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 83: [Strategy Call] Juggling All the Things with Amanda Acker

Ep 119: How Productivity is Impacted by Seasonal Energy

Ep 131: Manage Stress Through Rest and Play with Gary Ware

Ep 160: Seasonal Planning for Neurodiverse Entrepreneurs with Erik Fisher

Ep 215: Why You Need to Know Your Internal Productivity Rhythm

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Find Light When the World Feels Dark

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

A positive approach is essential no matter what you come up against in life, and cultivating positive thinking can be a lifesaver when dealing with dark times. Please don’t confuse positive thinking with toxic positivity, which denies our struggles. Healthy, positive thinking is a tool that helps us navigate our way through difficult times. This week, episode 248 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to find light when the world feels dark!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share insights on how to use positive psychology to cope with adversity and build resilience, including steps to take to build the tools to help you navigate difficult times.

I cover the following topics:

The difference between toxic positivity and using positive psychology, which allows you to acknowledge and process your feelings while building healthy coping mechanisms.
Defining optimism and hope, which are skills that can be learned and strengthened over time.
Six things you can do to cultivate optimism and hope in your life.

When the world feels dark, remember that you’re not alone in this journey. By incorporating these positive psychology principles and practical tools into your life, you can discover solutions, find strength in the face of adversity, and ultimately shine a light into the darkness.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 8: Toxic Positivity with Valerie Friedlander

Ep 46: Help Yourself by Helping Others with Jake Doherty

Ep 114: Harmful Mindset Approaches with Valerie Friedlander

Ep 153: Coping with Grief by Giving Back with Lindsay Taylor

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Why Being Intentional is Essential to Be Productive

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Too often, we go through our days reacting to things that come up, putting out fires, and running on the hamster wheel without knowing how we even got there or how to stop. While this is a well-meaning approach to get by, the result isn’t productivity; it's guilt and stress. There is a different, more effective approach where you work in a way that is best for you and that’s flexible for your current phase of life: intentional action. This week, episode 247 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why being intentional is essential to being productive!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how intentional action, rather than reactive action, leads to greater success and fulfillment and I offer you actionable steps to use this approach so you can boost your productivity and overall well-being.

I cover the following topics:

Why traditional productivity advice is limiting and doesn’t work for everyone.
What it means to take intentional action and the benefits of doing so.
Practical steps to take intentional action focusing on what matters to you most.

Intentional action is a skill that takes time and practice to develop, but the rewards are well worth the effort. By embracing this approach, you can unlock your true productivity potential and create a life that aligns with your values.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 61: Why You Must Free Yourself from the Hustle Mentality

Ep 189: Why Compassion is Essential to Be More Productive

Ep 235: When You Must Say No for a Less Stressful Life

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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A SIMPLE™ Way to Reduce Clutter and Stress

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

[On-demand] Whole-Life Decluttering Workshop

While there are many systems for decluttering and experts advising you on how to approach clutter, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The key to finding the approach that is best for you is creating your own framework, which is one of the things I help clients do as a coach. I use a 6-step system with the acronym SIMPLE to help declutter your space and do so in a way that will last. This week, episode 246 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about a SIMPLE™ way to reduce clutter and stress!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how my SIMPLE™ system helps you to approach clutter in a way that aligns with your unique needs and goals. I also walk you through the steps to apply this framework to tackle clutter in a sustainable way.

I cover the following topics:

Examples of how I have helped clients tackle their clutter and lift the mental and emotional weight tied to it.
Breaking down the acronym SIMPLE: Set, Identify, Match, Pare, Limit, and Evaluate, using the example of decluttering a kitchen to visualize the process.
How you can use this framework to declutter any space in your life, doing it in a way that lasts.

Using the SIMPLE™ framework, you can take control of the clutter in your life and create spaces that truly support how you want to live. What space in your life are you going to declutter first? I’d love for you to message me and let me know!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 243: How Your Home Office Can Make You More Productive

Ep 244: How to Clear Your Digital Clutter

Ep 2: Declutter your Life with the SIMPLE™ System

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Themes: The Simple Time Management Trick You Need

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Book a Quickstart Coaching Session

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by a packed calendar and even more overwhelmed by trying to add more things to that calendar, incorporating themes into your schedule might just be the solution you need. Themes–though most known for novels and fun parties–play an important part in how we naturally categorize our lives. By assigning overarching themes to your schedule, you can create a simplified approach that's flexible yet focused. This week, episode 245 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about themes: the simple time management trick you need!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how themes can transform your approach to time management and I offer you actionable steps to use this strategy to achieve your goals with greater ease.

I cover the following topics:

Why traditional scheduling doesn’t work for everyone, especially for neurodiverse.
The benefits of using themes to manage your time.
Five steps to create themes around your schedule.

If you’re ready to give themed time management a try, I encourage you to take the first step. Start with a daily theme, keep it simple, and see how it goes.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 3: Four Steps for Effective Time Management

Ep 83: [Strategy Call] Juggling All the Things with Amanda Acker

Ep 124: [Strategy Call] Using School Themes to Time Block with Lauren Yee

Ep 125: [Strategy Call] Follow Up to School Style Time Blocking with Lauren Yee

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Clear Your Digital Clutter

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

We've talked about physical and mental clutter many times on the podcast, but digital clutter is in its own category. It’s one of the more insidious types of clutter because you can't see or feel it. It hides really well and is one of the easiest to collect and forget about. This week, episode 244 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to clear out digital clutter!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how digital clutter, an often overlooked element of the clutter we accumulate, causes stress and delays, and I offer you practical strategies to declutter and regain control of your digital space.

I cover the following topics:

How digital clutter differs from other forms of clutter.
The most common types of digital clutter and where it piles up the most.
Practical steps to clear out your digital clutter and maintain it over time.

Digital clutter isn’t just visually distracting and stressful; it can literally drain you and your devices. That's adding insult to injury in a world that’s draining enough.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Declutter Playlist

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How Your Home Office Can Make You More Productive

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0500

Positively Living Podcast: Declutter Playlist

Whether you have a large, private space or a shared section of a room for a home office or workspace, it’s important to acknowledge how your surroundings impact your productivity. Even the smallest design changes can help you focus and foster creativity. This week, episode 243 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how your home office can make you more productive!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share the importance of tailoring your environment to suit you and your needs and give you practical tips to create a workspace that boosts your productivity and inspires creativity.

I cover the following topics:

How our environment both affects and reflects our mental space and what we can do about it.
The way decluttering and organizing go hand in hand, but are two different things.
Eight things to consider when making your home office a more productive space.

The biggest takeaway from this episode is to create a space that feels comfortable and meets your individual work style and needs. You want to create a space that is conducive to your work, and the way to do that is to create a space that is a reflection of you.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 34: My Caregiving and Clutter Story

Ep 204: Why Bringing Nature Inside Will Help You Focus Better with Kasey Riley

Ep 2: Declutter Your Life with the SIMPLE™ System

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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A Reverse Approach to Better Achieve Your Goals

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 238: The Most Effective Life Coaching Questions to Ask Yourself with Lisa Kneller

While I’m thrilled to coach you every episode (and will continue to do so), it’s also my goal to equip you with the resources to coach yourself for maximum growth and achievement. Today. I’m doing this through a series of simple yet powerful questions in an unexpected order. This week, episode 242 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about a reverse approach to better achieve your goals!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing the“BE, DO, HAVE” model that will help you define what you truly want and understand the meaning behind your goals. Through examples and practical steps, I walk you through everything you need to know to reverse-engineer your approach to goal setting and personal development.

I cover the following topics:

How you can apply the “be the change you want to see” approach to your goals by identifying then embodying the qualities, attitudes, and beliefs that align with your vision.
How aligned and inspired action in the form of consistent, habitual steps will be a natural course of action when you start what you want to be.
Practical tips and next steps you can take to apply this method in your own life.

Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to first decide who you want to BE. From there, the aligned action will be much easier to implement. And if you’re a fellow multi-passionate, don’t worry–it’s about asking yourself who you want to be next. Choose one to go with, take these steps, and step into the next era of your life.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 137: How to Create a Vision Board that Works

Ep 225: How to Rebuild a Lost Habit or Create a Better One

Ep 15: How to Harness Habits to Achieve Your Goals

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Why Being Cozy Can Make You More Productive

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Self-Care Podcast Playlist

When you think of productivity, your mind might immediately jump to hustle and grind culture…unless you follow me, of course! But today, I am introducing you to the concept of being cozy AND productive. It may seem like an odd juxtaposition, but it works. And when you stop to think about it and learn the science behind it, it makes sense. This week, episode 241 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why being cozy can make you more productive!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I continue to challenge the hustle culture propaganda that tells us we cannot and should not rest, and I introduce a life principle from Denmark, one of the world’s happiest countries!

I cover the following topics:

Using Hygge (pronounced “hoo-guh”), the Danish approach to living, to shift our approach, getting things done while being cozy and content.
Breaking down the three principles of Hygge: pleasure, presence, and participation, and how each pillar boosts productivity.
The scientific reasons why creating a calming, focused work environment and lifestyle cultivates productivity better than a hustle mentality.
Four actionable steps you can take to incorporate Hygge principles into your life.

Productivity isn't about pushing yourself to the brink of exhaustion. It's about finding a sustainable pace that allows you to thrive. And sometimes, that means embracing coziness even as you work toward your goals.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 106: Choose What Energizes You Through Mindfulness with Sarah Steckler

Ep 108: Mindfulness Practices to Help You Focus with Lindsay Coward

Ep 204: Why Bringing Nature Inside Will Help You Focus Better with Kasey Riley

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Four Things You Need To Do Before The Year Ends

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 82: The Planning Mindset You Need to Create Your Best Year with Angela Henderson

With another year coming to a close, you may be feeling ready for a “fresh” start. But before we leave this year behind us, I highly encourage reflection, celebration, and preparation during this time so you can step into the calendar year confidently. This week, episode 240 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about the four things you need to do before the year ends!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share two strategic and two specific things you can do to set yourself up for success in the new year and give you actionable steps to take right now to approach these four things in a manageable way.

I cover the following topics:

Before forging ahead, take the time to pause and reflect on where you’ve been (I include questions to ask yourself as you reflect).
Plan where you want to go by visualizing what you want to accomplish and setting aligned goals.
Review your finances, spending what you may lose, and setting a realistic budget moving forward.
Clear out your physical and digital clutter to make space for what is to come in the new year.

By taking the time to do these things, you’ll be setting yourself up for a successful and fulfilling new year. And even if you do just a little bit in each category, the return on investment will be significant.

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Ep 136: Reflections Instead of Resolutions

Ep 172: Why the Simple Act of Pausing Will Make You More Productive

Ep 239: How to Choose a Word of the Year

Ep 160: Seasonal Planning for Neurodiverse Entrepreneurs with Erik Fisher

Ep 187: How to Figure Out Your Planning Style with Kylie Ota

Ep 98: The 3 Numbers You Need to Know for Your Business to Thrive with Danielle Hayden

Ep 9: Motherhood and Money with Janice Pica-Scholl

Declutter Podcast Playlist

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How to Choose a Word of the Year [Re-release]

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Compassionate, sustainable productivity comes from small steps compounded by way of building habits that work best for us. When it comes to my fellow multi-passionate creatives, caregivers, and neurodiverse clients, it’s essential that we create paths that have authenticity and flexibility built into them. A word of the year does just that. And at a time when we are reflecting on the past year and looking ahead to a new one, now is the perfect time to choose one. This week, episode 239 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to choose a word of the year!

In this episode, I share why choosing a word of the year can help you stay in alignment with your goals and I offer you actionable steps and inspiration to choose a word that suits you for the year ahead.

Be sure to listen for the following topics:

The benefits of a word of the year–how it acts as a filter to help decide which actions will move you closer to your goals, all while keeping you focused and grounded.
Questions to ask yourself when choosing a word to guide your year.
My personal word of the year choices over the last 10 years that you can get inspiration from when choosing your own (feel free to borrow from my list!)

As you explore this practice, feel free to adjust it so it really works for you. It’s meant to be a guide for a season in your life to keep you focused and on track, but where you go is always your choice.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path, fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do, the Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 137: How to Create a Vision Board That Works

Ep 138: Why You Need a Word of the Year

Ep 139: The Power of Being Present

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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The Most Effective Life Coaching Questions to Ask Yourself with Lisa Kneller

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Having a coach is like having a second brain that gives you a different perspective when making decisions to improve your life. This is the reason coaches hire other coaches and why coaching yourself–either in place of hiring a coach or as a supplement in between your coaching sessions–has incredible benefits. Lisa Kneller, a certified insight coach, joins me today to talk about how this DIY approach can work for you. This week, episode 238 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about the most effective life coaching questions to ask yourself!

Lisa Kneller is a Certified Insight Coach, public speaker, blogger, and podcaster. She helps people recover their identity, discover their purpose, and create a life of meaningful service so they can impact their world in a powerful way. Lisa is also a Certified Yoga Teacher and has been teaching yoga since 2003. Lisa has studied coaching with world-renowned coaches. She is committed to learning and evolving throughout her life and is dedicated to being an example of what's possible.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Lisa Kneller shares how “coaching yourself” is the key to unlocking personal growth and transformation. She shares the essential questions you should be asking yourself to discover your true identity so you can uncover your life’s purpose and chart a course toward your desired future.

Lisa and I cover the following topics:

Why self-coaching is beneficial, even when you have a professional coach.
The three questions that are essential for self-discovery.
The one question you must ask as you become more aware of your thoughts.
Using the CTFAR (circumstance, thought, feeling, action, and result) model as a framework for journaling and thought work.
Taking time to address the actual or perceived obstacles that come up as you visualize your desired future.

Coaching is a way to hasten transformation and to learn about who you are and what you can accomplish. As you explore these questions and figure out what you want to achieve, I encourage you to consider productivity coaching, which can help you quickly and efficiently identify the steps to get you there and to take inspired action.

CONNECT WITH LISA KNELLER:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

MINDTRX

Ep 158: The Benefits of Therapeutic Journaling for Mental Health

Ep 109: Strategic Journaling for Business Growth with Lisa Latimer

Ep 183: No Fail Gratitude Journal Approach for Your Busy Life

Ep 198: Notetaking Inspiration to Easily Organize Your Life with Emily Aborn

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How to Use a Gratitude Practice in a Stressful Life

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Positively Grateful Resources Bundle

Gratitude Podcast Episodes

Life is stressful. Anyone who tells you otherwise is either selling something or living on an island somewhere. But just because a stressful life is the reality for many of us, doesn’t mean that life’s not good too. It can absolutely be both. Identifying the good part is a key element of practicing gratitude. This week, episode 237 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to use a gratitude practice in a stressful life.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing how a regular gratitude practice can shift our perspective, improve resilience, and reduce stress and I give you actionable steps to take right now to design a gratitude practice in a way that works best for you.

I cover the following topics:

A review of stress—how it can be helpful and harmful.
Using gratitude to choose the direction of our thoughts, focusing on the positive.
Actionable ways to practice gratitude for stress management and a few methods to try for yourself.
Sample questions to use as a prompt when you’re getting started.

I encourage you to embrace the power of gratitude and use it as a guiding light to navigate the stresses of life, empowering yourself to live with more positivity, resilience, and joy.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Stress Management Podcast Episodes

Ep 8: Toxic Positivity with Valerie Friedlander

Ep 114: Harmful Mindset Approaches with Valerie Friedlander

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Make Your Holiday Season Less Stressful with the 80/20 Principle

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Decluttering Podcast Playlist

There is so much to appreciate about the holiday season, including time with those you love and experiences that connect you more deeply with others and yourself. It’s a time when you can take a break, enjoy treats, and think about what’s most important. But often, this doesn’t come without its fair share of stressors. To combat those stressors, I give you the 80/20 principle. By using this tool to reduce the impact of those stressors and highlight the good things, we can truly enjoy the holiday season. This week, episode 236 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about making your holiday season less stressful with the 80/20 principle.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m discussing reasons why we may experience increased stress during the holiday season and sharing several ways you can incorporate the 80/20 principle into your life so you can choose what works best for you.

I cover the following topics:

Where the 80/20 principle originated from and how it applies to many aspects of our everyday lives.
Four ways to simplify holiday shopping and reduce financial strain.
Four tips for managing your expectations around the holiday season.
Using the 80/20 principle to be selective with the holiday activities you participate in (choosing the 20% of things that bring you 80% of your joy).
As a bonus, I emphasize the importance of decluttering your physical, mental, and gift-giving spaces to instantly reduce stress.

When you can be more present and prioritize what truly matters, you’ll reduce stress and create a more enjoyable and meaningful holiday season. That is what I wish for you.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 199: Using the 80/20 Principle to Leverage a Better Life

Ep 235: When You Must Say No for a Less Stressful Life

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When You Must Say No for a Less Stressful Life

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

As a recovering people pleaser and a multi-passionate creative, I actually love saying YES to people and opportunities. But I’ve also learned what will happen if I’m not careful, intentional, and selective in the things I say yes to. This week, episode 235 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about when you must say no for a less stressful life!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing that, while it may feel good at the moment, saying yes to too many things can lead to stress, loss of focus, missed opportunities, and burnout. To avoid this, I am giving you actionable steps to take right now to evaluate what you want to say yes to so you can say no to the rest.

I cover the following topics:

The consequences of continually saying yes too often and, alternatively, the benefits of saying no when necessary.
How to identify instances when you should say “no”, even when your instinct is telling you to say “yes.”
Five practical tips you can use to evaluate the opportunities that come your way and set boundaries that protect your time and energy.

This is not simply about saying "no” (though I encourage you to practice that) but realizing it’s when you say no that makes a big difference. This comes with practice and continued self-awareness. I encourage you to keep learning your limits so you can honor them and keep setting those boundaries to reduce stress, increase focus, and achieve your goals.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 117: How to Say No Without Feeling Guilty or Rude

Ep 53: How To Tell If I'm Codependent with Mallory Jackson

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[Strategy Call] Handling Invisible Stressors in a Demanding Life with Janis Isaman

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0500

How to Reduce Mental Load as a Parent or Caregiver with Roxanne Ferber

Invisible stressors are stressors in our lives that aren’t necessarily obvious but can build up over time and take us down. As a multi-passionate entrepreneur, volunteer, and solo parent and caregiver of a special needs child, Janis Isaman found herself experiencing an anxiety episode when her invisible stressors built up, leaving her feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and behind on her task list. This week, episode 234 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is a strategy call where I help Janis handle the invisible stressors in her demanding life!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, you’ll see how someone whose business revolves around wellness and who constantly checks all of the self-care boxes can still fall victim to invisible stressors. I coach Janis on navigating her unbalanced support systems, reducing visual clutter in her home, and managing the different areas of life that require her attention.

Janis and I cover the following topics:

Planning time and space for the unexpected to pop up without derailing everything else.
Setting parameters about what notifications to allow all the time and setting designated times to check the rest.
Creating a system to organize and inventory the surplus of household items to reduce visual clutter and avoid over-buying.
Upholding the systems you put in place when life gets overwhelming.

While these strategy calls speak directly to the problems my guest is facing, we can all fall victim to these invisible stressors. If you think you would benefit from a strategy session with me, I encourage you to reach out. I would love to help you navigate your unique problems.

CONNECT WITH JANIS ISAMAN:

My Body Couture

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Life and Business Advice from a Multi-Passionate Mom Entrepreneur with Reena Friedman Watts

[Strategy Call] Balancing Family and Business with Roxanne Ferber

[Strategy Call] Managing Stress and Making the Most of Moving with Reena Friedman Watts

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Quick Tips to Try When You're Feeling Overwhelmed [Ask Lisa]

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

According to Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies, I am a questioner by nature. In addition to constantly asking why, I also love answering questions too. I appreciate the challenge and the encouragement to reflect, which is probably why I love coaching. That’s why when I received a couple of related questions surrounding the topic of overwhelm, I wanted to take the time to answer them on the podcast, as I think my responses can be helpful for all of us. This week, episode 233 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about quick tips to try when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m giving you practical advice when dealing with various types of overwhelm, how to manage your energy, and how to find the systems that make your life easier.

I cover the following topics:

How you can begin sorting through everything when you’re overwhelmed (after taking care of yourself first).
Advice for finding, learning, and actually using new systems that work for YOU.
Tips for overcoming the paralyzing feelings of overwhelm and depression that creep up.

Keep in mind that even when the overwhelm differs, the approach to help it is very similar. Take a moment to care for yourself, approach the situation with self-compassion, and make space to focus so you can decide what’s next.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

[PLP] Tackle Your ToDo List in Four Simple Steps

[PLP] How to Avoid Forgetting Things When Life Gets Hectic

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Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Prioritize Personal Time by Setting Boundaries

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Manage Stress through Rest and Play with Gary Ware (buzzsprout.com)

Whether you’re working for someone else or yourself, personal time is essential for maintaining mental and physical well-being, preventing burnout, and boosting your productivity and performance. It’s something we know we need to prioritize, but it can feel so challenging to make the time for it. This week, episode 232 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to prioritize personal time by setting boundaries!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing the common challenges that multi-passionate entrepreneurs, caregivers, and people pleasers face when setting boundaries around their time, and I offer you actionable steps to take right now to start prioritizing your personal time.

I cover the following topics:

Six reasons why it’s essential to prioritize our personal time.
Why it can be such a challenge to take personal time (even when we acknowledge the benefits).
Three steps to take when you’re ready to break free and create your own boundaries (and protect them).

Prioritizing personal time isn't selfish; it’s essential. It's about filling your own cup so you can show up as your best self for the people and passions you care about.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Could you use some support? The Quickstart Coaching session is a way to get to know your productivity path fast! A speed-round strategy session is perfect for a quick win and to see what coaching can do. The Quickstart will encourage and inspire you to take intentional, effective action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpquick for a special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

How Overplanning Actually Hinders You From Doing More (buzzsprout.com)

Why Bringing Nature Inside Will Help You Focus Better with Kasey Riley (buzzsprout.com)

How to Balance Your Life through Wholeness Pillars with Nicole Mixdorf (buzzsprout.com)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Become a Recovering Perfectionist with Steph Ellen Diplock

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Do you struggle to take action because something has to be “just right,” or do you beat yourself up for everything you’ve done wrong (without noticing all you've done right)? Maybe you feel like you’re just not enough because you can’t reach the level of achievement or quality you want. If so, you may be labeled a “perfectionist.” Steph Ellen Diplock, a recovered perfectionist, joins me on the podcast today to delve into the complexities of perfectionism, exploring its roots, manifestations, and the impact it has on us as individuals (especially women). This week, episode 231 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to become a recovering perfectionist!

In addition to being a recovered perfectionist, Steph Ellen is a multi-passionate mindset coach, energetic healer, certified yoga teacher, and equine veterinarian. Steph works with high achievers to let go of perfectionism and self-sabotage and live their purpose without hustle. Steph’s zone of genius is combining potent mindset coaching, shadow work, and nervous system regulation for a holistic and lasting transformation.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Steph Ellen Diplock shares how perfectionism is too often glorified yet is actually a form of self-sabotage, leading to procrastination and a lack of authentic connection. She offers you actionable steps to take right now to overcome perfectionism.

Steph Ellen and I cover the following topics:

How perfectionism is less about having high standards and more a coping mechanism used to minimize feelings of shame and inadequacy.
How to overcome perfectionism by being present, celebrating small successes, and having self-awareness paired with self-compassion.
Finding safety in the body and practicing making mistakes in low-stakes environments are the first steps in getting comfortable with not being perfect.

Keep in mind that as you start your journey, it’s not about sacrificing high standards. It’s about being kind to yourself in the process of trying to reach them. To overcome perfectionism, self-compassion–which is the greatest builder of resilience–is essential.

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How to Let Go of Shane and Rebuild Self-Trust with Valerie Friedlander

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

5 Ways to Take Back Your Self-Worth with Jomana Elaridi

Internal Family Systems As a Proven Treatment for Burnout with Katie LaCelle

Binaural Beats: Sleep, Therapy, and Meditation (healthline.com)

The Diary Of A CEO - YouTube

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Why We Need to be Trauma-Informed (More Than Ever)

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Ep 221: How to Help People Dealing with Trauma and Grief with Janice Scholl | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Productivity is often viewed as a one-size-fits-all solution, but that is far from the truth. There could be a hundred different factors that impact your productivity, one of which is the topic we’re addressing today: trauma. Becoming trauma-informed not only helps us when it comes to our personal development and productivity but is crucial for understanding ourselves and others on a deeper level. This week, episode 230 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why we need to be trauma-informed (more than ever)!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m diving into what a trauma-informed approach is, why it’s not just for therapists but for everyone, and how it’s not only compassionate but essential for sustainable productivity.

I cover the following topics:

Trauma’s significant impact on our ability to be productive, as it affects our energy levels, motivation, and focus.
How Trauma isn’t always how we imagine it. Yes, it can be linked to major catastrophes and great loss, but it can also be linked to childhood bullying, neglect, or immense burnout.
Why taking a compassionate person-first approach to productivity and recognizing each person's unique challenges and experiences is essential to sustainable productivity.

Take heart and be encouraged, knowing that a trauma-informed approach will help you cultivate a healthy and sustainable relationship with productivity.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 29: Trauma-Informed Life with Mallory Jackson | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Ep 53: How To Tell If I'm Codependent with Mallory Jackson (buzzsprout.com)

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The Most Important Direction For Effective Planning

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

While our ability to be flexible and resilient and change direction is important, planning first is essential. It’s a way to arrange how things will go ideally, and even if they don’t go that way, it will still help you keep focused and remain calm so you can be more flexible and resilient. This approach will be helpful as we enter the busy holiday season full of plans and events and be a tool to carry through the rest of the year as well. This week, episode 229 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about the most important direction for effective planning!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m giving you a framework and perspective that’s going to simplify the concept of planning and help you execute your plans with confidence and clarity, regardless of what you’re planning.

I cover the following topics:

The essence of “backwards” planning by visualizing the end result you’re aiming to achieve: “Begin with the end in mind,” as coined by Stephen R. Covey in his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
Using the example of planning a Thanksgiving dinner to break down the 5 parts of planning anything.
How to take this framework beyond event planning and use it in all other areas of your life.

Remember, planning is a powerful tool that empowers you to create the life you desire. By starting with the end in mind and embracing the key elements of planning, you can transform your vision into reality.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

PLP Episode 137: How to Create a Vision Board That Works

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Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Avoid Forgetting Things When Life Gets Hectic

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

While I don’t presume to know what your life is all about, I bet I can guess one thing about you: you handle a LOT. Whether you’re handling the mental load of caregiving or your mind is overflowing with ideas (or both), it can be overwhelming. It can feel amazing at times, all the while draining you and keeping you from functioning at your best. Luckily, the solution is more simple than you might think. It’s all about the art of “capturing”: taming the mental clutter so you can remember what’s important and boost your focus and creativity. This week, episode 228 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to avoid forgetting things when life gets hectic!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m digging into a concept called capturing. I share the origins of this technique, what it is, how it connects to mind sweeps and clutter, and give you actionable steps to take right now to try it for yourself.

I cover the following topics:

The negative impacts of an overwhelmed and cluttered mind.
The concept of “capturing” as outlined in David Allen’s “Getting Things Done” (GTD) productivity framework.
How to properly do a “mind sweep” and two resources you can use when you’re ready.
My personal approach and preferred tools to this technique of capturing in my multi-passionate life.

Don’t be afraid to keep trying until you figure out what works best for you. The best system for you is the one you will use.

If you’re interested in any of the tools or resources I mentioned in this episode, you can find them all linked on the RESOURCES page of my website.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

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Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Combining and Stacking Habits for Better Results

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Positive habits are the cornerstone of a productive and fulfilling life, but mastering them can be a challenge. Today I am continuing our conversation about habits with more advanced strategies to help you maximize your productivity, reach your goals, and unlock the secret to sustainable, long-lasting change in your life. This week, episode 227 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about combining and stacking habits for better results!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing a strategic habit building technique that helps you reach your goals faster and gives you actionable steps to take right now to incorporate these game-changing techniques into your everyday life.

I cover the following topics:

Reviewing the science behind habits: how we create them, why they’re so hard to break, and how powerful they can be.
Where the term “habit stacking” comes from and a simple formula for how to do it.
Ideas and examples for how you can incorporate habit stacking and anchoring throughout your day.
How focusing on building keystone habits can help you maximize the positive habits you create.

Habits are your building blocks of a productive and fulfilling life. There are so many ways habits, especially when we combine the right ones, can change our lives for the better. What habit will you work on next?

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Resources Page.)

Ep 15: How to Harness Habits to Achieve Your Goals

Ep 225: How to Rebuild a Lost Habit or Create a Better One

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How to Balance Your Life through Wholeness Pillars with Nicole Mixdorf

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

People are so quick to strive for work-life balance, but there’s a reason we struggle to achieve that balance. Nicole Mixdorf joins me on the podcast today to challenge this narrative, sharing the true nature of a balanced life and how it’s not just a balance between work and personal life we should be focusing on, but rather a wholeness in every area of our life. This week, episode 226 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to balance your life through wholeness pillars.

Nicole Mixdorf is a #1 International Best-Selling Author, Keynote Speaker, Energy Healer, and the Founder & Chief Wholeness Officer of Balance by Nature. She is a multi-award-winning corporate wellness consultant and conscious business leader in Los Angeles. She is passionate about teaching executives and busy professionals how to create sustainable balance to thrive in all of their 10 Pillars of Wholeness.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Nicole shares the importance of bringing balance to all areas of our lives (not just work and personal) to feel complete so we can show up as our best selves, and she offers simple steps you can take to address imbalances.

Nicole and I cover the following topics:

10 pillars of wholeness that we need to assess to ensure balance in our lives.
Some of the more common imbalances and areas we often neglect (you won’t be surprised that stress and lack of self-care are part of this list).
The transition from focusing on wellness, to well-being and into wholeness.
3 steps to assess and realign your pillars to show up as your best self, reach your full potential, and live your best life.

Reclaiming your wholeness and feeling complete within yourself allows you to show up in the world as your best self. When that happens, you can experience and find enjoyment and richness in every moment, and give to the world in a much bigger, more beautiful way.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Balanced by Nature

Embracing Change with Nicole Mixdorf | Positively Productive Systems LLC

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How to Rebuild a Lost Habit or Create a Better One

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0400

How to Use Body Doubling to Focus Better on Tasks

Habits can be both our greatest allies and our toughest adversaries. When we’ve painstakingly built up a routine that serves us well, it can be frustrating when life throws us a curveball, disrupting our hard-earned habits that we mistakenly thought were set in stone. But these disruptions don’t have to be the end of our progress. In fact, they can be an opportunity to reassess, rebuild, and replace habits in a way that are in alignment with our evolving needs. This week, episode 225 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to rebuild a lost habit or create a better one!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m diving deep into the world of rebuilding habits–how to create them, why they sometimes fizzle out and actionable steps to take right now to rebuild habits that serve us in our current season of life.

I cover the following topics:

A review of how habits work (as explained by authors Charles Duhigg and James Clear).
Why our habits tend to fizzle out when they are disrupted by life events, stress, or changes in routine.
4 tips for rebuilding or recreating habits and examples of how you can apply these steps in your daily routine.

Remember, getting back into the groove of a habit takes time and patience, but the rewards are significant. Be kind to yourself, celebrate every small step, and stick with it. Consistency will help you reach your goals.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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How to Harness Habits to Achieve Your Goals

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Figuring Out Your Next Steps After Big Life Shifts

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400

PLP: Pay Attention, Find Your Purpose with Michelle Perry

As the saying goes, “The only constant in life is change.” The extent of that change and how it unfolds can vary, sometimes feeling fairly minor and other times throwing us completely off balance, shaking the foundation of who we believe ourselves to be. When change happens, you may feel unsure of how to move forward. I have experienced this many times, and I’ve come to both respect the challenges it presents and appreciate the growth it brings. I hope to share some of that wisdom with you today. This week, episode 224 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about figuring out your next steps after big life shifts.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I discuss the journey of self-awareness and self-discovery that needs to come after a big life shift and give you actionable steps to take right now to keep moving forward confidently.

The topics I cover in this episode include:

Lack of self-identity is a main contributor to feeling unsure of what to do next after a big change.
How self-reflection and self-discovery are essential to define your next steps.
Five tips to apply to this self-reflection journey: giving yourself time to grieve, reflecting and connecting to what matters to you, exploring and experimenting with new options, seeking support, and embracing the journey (and the imperfections that come with it).

You are not alone in this. We all go through seasons of change in our lives and I am here to cheer you on and encourage you to take those next steps needed to heal and move forward.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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PLP: Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Schlabach

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How to Live a Productive Life While Grieving

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400

It is problematic that we tend to look at being productive as a standalone thing, without considering the other aspects of our lives. The reality is that life doesn’t happen in a vacuum and even the small things can have an impact. Everything we are and feel, especially grief, affects what we do and how we do it. This week, episode 223 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to live a productive life while grieving.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing a glimpse of my personal journey with grief throughout my life and giving you actionable steps to take to acknowledge your grief and move forward with what you can do, while also giving yourself grace for what you can’t.

I cover the following topics:

Defining grief—the emotional response to loss of any kind (even including the change we welcome into our lives).
How grief can manifest physically, cognitively, and emotionally, significantly impacting every aspect of one’s life.
Acknowledging the presence of grief in our lives is the first step to moving forward with it.
Planning our personal approach with realistic goals, self-care, and support from others.
Adjusting our expectations and reframing what “productivity” means, can create the space needed for healing.

Acknowledging and working with—not against—grief is not only a kindness to ourselves but also a key to unlocking our productivity potential.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Could you use some support? Ready for a quick win and to try coaching with Lisa? The Productivity Boost session is a speed-round strategy that is highly effective for shifting a habit, quickly reviewing your weekly schedule, discussing productivity related tech and systems, and moving past decision hurdles for prioritizing. You'll walk away encouraged and inspired to take action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpboost for a very special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Rebuild Your Life While Grieving with Carrie Hopkins-Doubts

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Life’s Next Chapter Coaching

Content Warning: Today’s conversation has very brief mentions of the loss of a loved one, and the loss of a child by suicide. If these are triggers for you, I gently encourage you to wait to listen or proceed carefully.

Grief is a universal human experience, yet it can feel deeply isolating when we’re in the throes of it, often feeling hopeless and stuck. It can be difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel, so to speak, and feel impossible to move forward. Carrie Hopkins-Doubts, a grief coach, knows this feeling well as she experienced it herself and now guides others on their journey to rebuild their life after loss. This week, episode 222 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to rebuild your life while grieving.

Carrie Hopkins-Doubts, PCC, is a Spiritual Resilience Coach working with men and women experiencing major life transitions, whether in relationships, careers, health, or spirituality. As the founder of Life’s Next Chapter Coaching, Carrie’s passion is helping men and women discover new dreams for themselves as they consciously and powerfully rebuild their lives after loss by guiding them to reconnect with their heart, reclaim their power, and realign with their purpose to create their life’s next chapter.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Carrie Hopkins-Doubts shares specific steps to help you identify where you are in your grief path and offers actionable steps to move forward and rebuild your life after loss.

Carrie and I cover the following topics:

How grief affects individuals on multiple levels - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, often leading to a shift in identity.
Conscious grief: meeting and honoring your emotions with compassion and self-love, rather than avoiding or suppressing them.
Self-care during grief is an essential habit to create the capacity for change and forward movement.
Finding a safe space, whether through a support group or a trusted individual, when processing your grief.

As you navigate grief, remember that you are not alone and you have the resilience to rebuild your life in a way that honors your loss and allows new growth to emerge.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Navigating Grief through Humor with Katie Rössler

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

How We Grow through Grief with Katie Rössler

Coping with Grief by Giving Back with Lindsay Taylor

Letting Go of the Weight of Grief with Sherry Trentini

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How to Help People Dealing with Trauma and Grief with Janice Scholl

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Raising Middle School Girls

Content Warning: Today’s conversation involves mention of medical trauma and near-death experiences. If these are triggers for you, I gently encourage you to wait to listen or proceed carefully.

Grief is so much more than losing a loved one. We can grieve after breakups and when we purposely choose to change; we can even grieve the loss of opportunity and parts of ourselves as we grow and age. But when society has conditioned us to grit it out when faced with something difficult, we realize that not only do we not know how to grieve, we don’t know how to support others through their grief. Janice Scholl joins me on the podcast today to share her personal story of navigating crisis and grief and the value of having support from others during challenging times. This week, episode 221 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to help people dealing with trauma and grief.

Janice Scholl is a podcast host, speaker, and former commercial banker. She spends her time talking to parents and experts about raising strong, confident, resilient girls, as well as family finances and family-driven career breaks. Her podcast, Raising Middle School Girls, helps parents worldwide support their tween and teen girls navigate common challenges such as friendships, family communication, confidence, social media, and so much more.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Janice shares her perspective on grief as a fundamental identity change and she gives you actionable advice you can take to recognize and cope with grief, and how to support others who are grieving.

Janice and I cover the following topics:

Having the emotional maturity to hold space for someone’s emotions without trying to “fix” the situation.
Both devastation and gratitude can coexist; finding joy and appreciation comes from knowing the opposite.
Three things you can do to help someone who can’t verbalize what they need in a time of crisis.

Let go of your fear of getting it wrong and take action with the right intentions. Grief is a journey we all share at one point or another and the more we can hold space for each other, the better off we’ll be.

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Motherhood and Money with Janice Pica-Scholl

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Navigating Grief through Humor with Katie Rössler

How We Grow through Grief with Katie Rössler

Coping with Grief by Giving Back with Lindsay Taylor

Letting Go of the Weight of Grief with Sherry Trentini

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

How Decluttering Helps You Stress Less and Focus Better

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Podcast | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Clutter is so much more than the physical stuff surrounding you. As Peter Walsh says, it’s anything that gets between you and the life you want to live. Clutter threads itself through every aspect of your life, impacting mental well-being, productivity, and overall quality of life. But luckily for us, decluttering even in the smallest amounts has a profound, almost instantaneous impact on our lives. This week, episode 220 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how decluttering helps you stress less and focus better!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I explain how clutter holds us back, impacting every area of our lives, and give you actionable steps to remove the clutter and reclaim your peace and productivity.

I cover the following topics:

How clutter, in all forms, impacts our overall well-being and the significant benefits we experience as we remove it.
The 4 main types of clutter (physical, mental, emotional, and digital) and the subcategories within each.
Decision fatigue and how it causes clutter and how your clutter triggers it, activating stress hormones and cognitive overload.
3 simple tips to keep in mind when starting a decluttering project.

Remember, decluttering is not just about getting rid of stuff. It’s about creating space for what truly matters in your life, reducing stress, improving focus, and enhancing your overall well-being.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

PLP: Whole-Life Decluttering Workshop

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How to Free Your Mind from Imposter Syndrome with Nicole Majik

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Imposter syndrome is something we’ve all experienced to some extent. It’s the culmination of our limiting beliefs that paralyze us in the moment and keep us from moving forward, which is why we need to free ourselves from it. Nicole Majik joins me on the podcast to shed light on what imposter syndrome looks like, how it’s connected to needs, beliefs, and experiences, and the steps we can take to turn it around and heal the past. This week, episode 219 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to free your mind from imposter syndrome!

Nicole Majik is a dynamic and inspirational catalyst for personal and professional transformation. With her unique blend of expertise, experience, and passion, Nicole empowers individuals to awaken their true potential and embrace a life of purpose, fulfillment, and success.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Nicole shares how imposter syndrome is deeply connected to our limiting beliefs and she gives you actionable steps to take right now to recognize the beliefs that do not serve us so that we can change them.

Nicole and I cover the following topics:

Imposter syndrome is a symptom of abandonment and shame and acts as an umbrella of the many negative behaviors, feelings, and thoughts we have.
3 pillars that everyone needs to feel fulfilled: safety and security, love and acceptance, and empowerment.
Telltale signs that you might be experiencing imposter syndrome.
Ways to heal the past: considering where beliefs originated, gaining an adult perspective on the past, and practicing self-forgiveness.

As a reminder, you don’t have to free yourself fully to make progress. You can remove one block at a time and keep taking action while you heal. Feel the fear and do it anyway.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Ep 216: How to Let Go of Shame and Rebuild Self-Trust with Valerie Friedlander

Ep 56: Conquer Your Inner Critic Through Play with Jeff Harry

Ep 209: How To Motivate Yourself By Meeting Your Needs First

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Why Successful People Strengthen Their Emotional Intelligence with Chantay Golson

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

When we look at high-achieving professionals, great leaders, and anyone considered successful, the first things we notice are their abilities, talents, strategies, and determination. We zone in on the hard skills, but soft skills are essential. In particular, there is an area of self-management that not only paves a path to success, it’s the key to combating stress, coming back from burnout, and helping you prioritize self-care in a way you haven’t before. Chantay Golson joins me on the podcast as we dive into how emotional intelligence connects to our success, personally and professionally. This week, episode 218 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why successful people strengthen their emotional intelligence!

With over 25 years of expertise in mental health, Chantay Golson emphasizes the importance of establishing healthy foundations for intentional living. Her mission is to empower professional women to prioritize self-care and achieve balance. She is intentionally designing her life, rather than simply defaulting to one.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Chantay Golson shares her 3-tier formula for increasing your emotional intelligence and gives you actionable steps to take right now to use emotional self-awareness for better decision-making and stress management.

Chantay and I cover the following topics:

What Emotional intelligence (EQ) is: the ability to be aware of and recognize one’s emotions and respond appropriately.
How recognizing and investigating our triggers and patterns is the first step in developing emotional intelligence.
How self-care (or soul-care as Chantay describes it) is an essential aspect of preventing burnout.

Our stress levels, ability to prioritize self-care, and our personal and professional successes are all impacted by our choices and how we strengthen skills like emotional intelligence.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH CHANTAY GOLSON:

Ep 30: Feel the Fear, Do It Anyway with Raven Waterman (buzzsprout.com)

Meditation

Sisterhood Membership

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Ep 216: How to Let Go of Shame and Rebuild Self-Trust with Valerie Friedlander

Ep 56: Conquer Your Inner Critic Through Play with Jeff Harry

Ep 99: Emotions, Intuition, and Authenticity with Kristen Kubik

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Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Use Body Doubling to Focus Better on Tasks

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

If you struggle to stay on task when working alone, you’re not the only one. One way to combat this is using a powerful productivity technique called “body doubling”. It’s a simple technique that supercharges your focus by simply working side-by-side with others. This week, episode 217 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to use body doubling to focus better on tasks.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing what body doubling is, why it works so well, and actionable steps to take right now to use body doubling as a productivity tool, keeping you focused and on track.

I cover the following topics:

The practical, neurological, psychological, and social reasons body doubling is effective.
Benefits of using body doubling as a productivity technique.
Why body doubling works particularly well for neurodiverse minds.
4 simple steps you can take to get started body doubling.
How the Positively LivingⓇ Co-working Club brings together the benefits of body doubling, boundaries, scheduling, planning, and coaching access in an accessible way.

Remember, you don’t have to go at it alone and it’s actually more effective if you don’t!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Join the Positively LivingⓇ Co-working Club

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How to Let Go of Shame and Rebuild Self-Trust with Valerie Friedlander

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

When we think of shame as an emotion, we can see how it doesn’t serve us, or rather, doesn’t help move us forward the way we want it to. But when we shift our mindset to view shame as another tool in our toolbox, we can understand why it is present and learn to pick up other, more helpful tools instead. Valerie Friedlander joins me on the podcast today to share how this shame tool, that we’ve learned to use for motivation, negatively impacts our self-trust and what we can do about it. This week, episode 216 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to let go of shame and rebuild self-trust!

Valerie Friedlander, PCC is a Life/Business Alignment coach who helps passionate, high-achieving women create alignment between their work in the world, their family, and themselves. She works with clients to listen to their intuition, shift conditioned mindset patterns, and take practical action steps to create a life that reflects the change they want to see in the world. She is also the host of the Unlimited podcast, and a wife, mom of two, sci-fi/fantasy nerd, and creative spirit.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Valerie Friedlander shares why we have been taught to use shame as a tool for motivation despite having so many other tools available to us and she offers actionable steps to take right now to release it and build self-trust.

Valerie and I cover the following topics:

How self-trust is built on integrity and embracing our whole selves, recognizing where we are.
Why finding a safe space in a community can help release shame and provide a sense of belonging.
Using self-care and self-acceptance to replace shame with more empowering tools.
How to let go of shame and instead approach challenges with curiosity and compassion.

By releasing shame and building trust in yourself, you can live with a greater sense of empowerment, acceptance, and care for your whole, authentic self.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Harmful Mindset Approaches with Valerie Friedlander

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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How To Motivate Yourself By Meeting Your Needs First

Early Signs of Burnout That May Surprise You

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Why You Need to Know Your Internal Productivity Rhythm

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Do you notice how your energy levels fluctuate throughout the day? The energy lulls and dips that you feel like you’re pushing through? While this certainly could relate to your sleep schedule or even be a sign of burnout, there is also a natural cycle in our bodies that causes these variations. This cycle is called the ultradian rhythm and, like most things, the more we understand it, the better we can use it to our advantage. This week, episode 215 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why you need to know your internal productivity rhythm!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m talking about our body’s internal productivity timer, the ultradian rhythm, that impacts our energy, focus, and mood throughout the day and I offer you actionable steps to take right now to use your ultradian rhythm to improve your focus, get more done, and avoid burnout!

I cover the following topics:

A scientific breakdown of how our ultradian rhythm creates distinct peaks and valleys in energy and focus throughout the day.
How to use this rhythm to your productive advantage by honoring your energy dips with scheduled breaks and maximizing peaks with task prioritization.
An example of what a day might look like leaning into the natural ebb and flow of your energy, moving in and out of flow state–the most productive state there is.

There is a natural ebb and flow to our lives and our bodies and the more we lean into that, the better it is for our wellbeing and productivity.

Could you use some support? Ready for a quick win and to try coaching with Lisa? The Productivity Boost session is a speed-round strategy that is highly effective for shifting a habit, quickly reviewing your weekly schedule, discussing productivity related tech and systems, and moving past decision hurdles for prioritizing. You'll walk away encouraged and inspired to take action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpboost for a very special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

PLP Ep 204: Why Bringing Nature Inside Will Help You Focus Better with Kasey Riley

PLP Ep 214: Why Your Morning Routine Results in Frustration Not Focus

PLP Ep 119: How Productivity is Impacted by Seasonal Energy

PLP Ep 160: Seasonal Planning for Neurodiverse Entrepreneurs with Erik Fisher

PLP Ep 137: How to Create a Vision Board That Works

PLP Ep 131: Manage Stress through Rest and Play with Gary Ware

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Why Your Morning Routine Results in Frustration Not Focus

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Take the Original Chronotype Quiz (sleepdoctor.com)

Morning routines, although effective for some, are not for everyone. And that’s ok! At its core, a morning routine is just that, a routine. It’s a specific window of time in which you’re aiming to complete a habit or set of habits requiring energy and focus. When you break it down, you can easily see how this concept can be taken and applied differently, yet, just as effectively at your preferred time of day. This week, episode 214 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why your morning routine results in frustration not focus!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m sharing why morning routines are constantly recommended, even if they don’t work for everyone, and what you can do if that includes you. I offer you actionable steps to take right now to design a routine that works for you.

I also cover the following topics:

Why you might struggle with a morning routine, even if others find it beneficial.
The most important part of a routine: the habits themselves (not the specific time of day they happen).
Using your chronotype and individual needs to create a flexible rhythm that aligns with your natural energy levels.
Examples of some of the mini-routines I do throughout the day and depending on the season I'm in.

Ultimately, the goal here is to create a lifestyle that supports your well-being and productivity, not to force yourself into a pattern that doesn't fit you. Remember, the best routine is the one that works for YOU.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Ep 119: How Productivity is Impacted by Seasonal Energy

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Make Better Decisions When You Align Your Actions with Chantelle Andercastle

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400

We all want to be in alignment because we know it’s a good thing. But what does being in alignment actually mean? And what are we aligning ourselves and our businesses to? Chantelle Andercastle joins me on the podcast today as we break down this buzzword and figure out how we can start taking aligned action. This week, episode 213 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about making better decisions when you align your actions!

Chantelle Andercastle is a mentor to service-based business owners and the author of the Aligned Action series for solo entrepreneurs.She offers hands-on help for clients to save time and skip steps, demystify business, and get things done in ways that feel aligned. Chantelle is the host of two popular shows, The Aligned Action Podcast and The Human Design Profiles: an Entrepreneurship Podcast.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Chantelle Andercastle helps me define “alignment” and what we mean when we use it. She also gives you actionable steps to take right now to find your alignment by asking yourself, “aligned to what?”

Chantelle and I cover the following topics:

Regularly reviewing and reflecting on your alignment ensures you are staying true to yourself and what matters to you.
Using tools like human design, astrology, Enneagram, Myers-Briggs, the 4 Tendencies, and others to gain insights about yourself.
Keeping a record of your insights to be used as a foundation for decision-making that is in alignment with your mission, vision, and values.
How system-based and inner reflections are equally important in understanding yourself.

From a productivity standpoint, once you figure out what you want to be in alignment with, you can use it as a blueprint so that every decision you make is a direct reflection of your mission, vision, and values.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH CHANTELLE ANDERCASTLE:

Clear Quartz Creative

Human Design Profiles Podcast

Aligned Action Podcast

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The Best Way for Creative Entrepreneurs to Build a Business with Lisa Robbin Young

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Why the Simple Act of Pausing Will Make You More Productive

Ethical Marketing Rebellion with Dr Michelle Mazur

Stay tuned for Lisa’s episode on the Human Design Profiles Podcast…Coming Soon!

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

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Why You Need to Ethically Align with Your Coach with Sarah Heeter

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Big Brave Business Podcast

Being ethical is defined as conforming to a standard of what’s right and good. While there are definitely certain practices that obviously fit that, there are also many grey areas that we may not agree with, but are not technically unethical practices either. In my conversation today with guest Sarah Heeter, our conversation of what it means to be an ethical coach naturally transitioned into being ethically aligned with colleagues, collaborators, and coaches. This week, episode 212 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why you need to align ethically with your coach!

Sarah K. Heeter is the founder & CEO of Podfox Media, a podcast production & strategic consultation company, & the co-host of the podcast Big Brave Business. She is a voice for business ethics, camaraderie and connection, and revolutionary leadership in entrepreneurship.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Sarah Heeter and I discuss the importance of defining your personal ethics and core values so that you can align yourself with others who have similar beliefs, both personally and professionally.

Sarah and I cover the following topics:

Ethical alignment and safety between coaches and mentors as a foundation for an effective partnership.
How even though personal core values will naturally influence the values of your business, the focus should be on serving clients’ needs over any personal agenda.
Healing and emotional safety as prerequisites for growth and something coaches need to consider before pushing their clients’ boundaries.
Clarifying desired outcomes up front helps avoid misaligned intentions between a coach and client’s goals.

When it comes to personal ethics and ethical mentorship, the goal is to focus on and understand your own ethics first. This way you can find others who align with them: those who are the best fit for you.

Could you use some support? Ready for a quick win and to try coaching with Lisa? The Productivity Boost session is a speed-round strategy that is highly effective for shifting a habit, quickly reviewing your weekly schedule, discussing productivity related tech and systems, and moving past decision hurdles for prioritizing. You'll walk away encouraged and inspired to take action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpboost for a very special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH SARAH HEETER:

Podfox media

How Your Personal and Business Brands Connect with Karley Cunningham

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Life and Business Advice from a Multi-Passionate Mom Entrepreneur with Reena Friedman Watts

Mon, 27 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Being a mom and an entrepreneur is quite the combo and certainly not for the faint of heart. Today’s guest and fellow mompreneur, Reena Friedman Watts, knows this to be true. She returns to the podcast to share her experiences and challenges as she navigates life transitions while seemingly juggling it all. This week, episode 211 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about life and business advice from a multi-passionate mom entrepreneur!

Reena Friedman Watts is a television producer, podcast host and mompreneur. Throughout her career, she has worked on reality TV shows such as The Jerry Springer Show and Court TV. Reena has been a host on her own podcast, “Better Call Daddy” since 2020 and produced 350+ episodes thus far. She’s interviewed guests like Evan Carmichael, Jerry Springer, Nanny Yvonne, James Altucher, Aleeza Ben Shalom, and many others. In addition to her podcast, Reena coaches entrepreneurs on finding their first clients, and helps people produce their own podcasts.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Reena catches us up on her life since being coached on the podcast in 2022. She shares how she has learned to prioritize her values and gives you actionable steps to take right now to leverage your transferable skills to follow your passions in life and business.

Reena and I cover the following topics:

Seizing opportunities and saying yes to the things that light you up.
Finding harmony in life as a mom, wife, entrepreneur and creative.
Chasing meaningful work that is authentic to your values.
Celebrating your accomplishments, no matter how big or small.

Be proud of all you do for you and for so many others. Keep choosing what lights you up and celebrate your wins, whether big or small.

CONNECT WITH REENA FRIEDMAN WATTS:

Better Call Daddy

X (Formerly Twitter)

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Ep 112: [Strategy Call] Managing Stress and Making the Most of Moving with Reena Friedman Watts

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Ep 51: Balancing Family and Business with Roxanne Ferber

Ep 156: How to Reduce Mental Load as a Parent or Caregiver with Roxanne Ferber

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Gratitude: One of the Simplest Habits to Improve Mental Wellbeing

Mon, 20 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400

During Mental Health Awareness Month, I wanted to revisit the practice of gratitude, a topic we have covered on the podcast before and is a personal favorite of mine. Studies have shown that having a gratitude practice is a powerful, yet simple healing habit that has a direct impact on your mental wellbeing. This week, episode 210 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about one of the simplest habits that improves mental wellbeing!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I’m revisiting what gratitude is, the scientific benefits of it, and actionable steps to take right now to incorporate a gratitude practice into your daily life.

I also cover the following topics:

The“protective factor” of practicing gratitude, as defined by the Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) curriculum I studied.
Research-based evidence that practicing gratitude reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, when practiced consistently.
How gratitude can be used in the habit reversal training technique to break the loop of negative thoughts (that don’t serve you) and replace them with positive ones.

Gratitude is one of the strongest allies we can have as we fight for our wellness. It creates a positive foundation for the things we want more of and counteracts the things we don’t.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Ep 183: No Fail Gratitude Journal Approach for Your Busy Life

Ep 132: 4 Ways You Are Already Practicing Gratitude

Ep 4: The Power of Gratitude

Ep 159: Why You Must Savor and Celebrate Your Success

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How To Motivate Yourself By Meeting Your Needs First

Mon, 13 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Your Mental Health is More Important than Productivity (buzzsprout.com)

In our hustle and grind world, it’s easy to get so focused on achievement that we forget about honoring and understanding life experiences in order to heal and grow. There’s a lot of irony in this because, in actuality, when we take care of our needs, instead of pushing past them for the sake of productivity, we actually become more productive. This week, episode 209 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to motivate yourself by meeting your needs first!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how meeting your basic needs can help you to focus on your bigger goals and I provide actionable steps to take right now to assess your needs and how to address them.

I cover the following topics:

Breaking down the 5 levels in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs.
How failure to have our needs met impacts our overall well-being.
Criticisms and considerations of Maslow’s Hierarchy
How to use the hierarchy of needs as a tool to check in with yourself and your needs and to set personal goals.

Don’t fall victim to the hustle culture that encourages you to push past burnout. There is nothing more important than your physical and emotional well-being. And when you prioritize that, productivity will follow.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Conquer Your Inner Critic through Play with Jeff Harry (buzzsprout.com)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Make Your Anxiety a Creative Advantage with Gregory Halpen

Mon, 06 May 2024 00:00:00 -0400

If you’re a creative person who has anxiety, you know how anxious thoughts and feelings can be a massive block when it comes to your creativity. But when we start to recognize and understand our anxiety we can learn to integrate it into our creative process and leverage it. Today’s guest, Gregory Halpen, knows this to be true as he faced his own journey of finding ways to manage his anxiety in a way that doesn’t hinder his creativity. This week, episode 208 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to make your anxiety a creative advantage!

Gregory Halpen has 30+ years of experience as a gay men’s leadership coach, solo theater artist, stage & TV actor, and singer. Gregory teaches leaders how to get out of their heads and lead from the heart.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Gregory Halpen shares how anxiety manifests itself in our creative process and gives you actionable steps to take right now to recognize and understand your anxiety so that you can find ways to interrupt and redirect it into something positive.

Gregory and I cover the following topics:

Recognizing what triggers your anxiety is an important step in managing it.
How self-awareness and personal development can help you heal from and let go of factors that cause anxiety.
How to practice channeling anxious energy into creative work instead of avoiding it.
Owning your part in conflicts can facilitate personal growth and manage anxiety moving forward.

Remember, whether it’s anxiety or anything else that challenges you, you are a person with a heart and soul first. And when you accept that, you can choose whether or not you let this part of yourself hold you back.

Could you use some support? Ready for a quick win and to try coaching with Lisa? The Productivity Boost session is a speed-round strategy that is highly effective for shifting a habit, quickly reviewing your weekly schedule, discussing productivity-related tech and systems, and moving past decision hurdles for prioritizing. You'll walk away encouraged and inspired to take action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpboost for a very special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH GREGORY HALPEN:

Creative Juices Podcast

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Boost Productivity and Well-being with a Toxic People Detox

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Emotions, Intuition, and Authenticity with Kristen Kubik

Internal Family Systems As a Proven Treatment for Burnout with Katie LaCelle

Two-Minute Transition Meditation

Dance Song Playlist V3

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When You Focus On Physical Wellness Your Mental Health Improves with Keri Cooper

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Our mental health drives so many aspects of our lives and can either limit or lighten us. Thankfully, the more we understand it, the better we can tend to it, and the more likely we are to thrive. Holistic therapist Keri Cooper joins the podcast today to share how focusing on the physical foundations of wellness significantly impacts our mental health. This week, episode 207 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how when you focus on physical wellness, your mental health improves!

Keri Cooper, LCSW, is the owner of Keri Cooper Holistic Therapy in northern New Jersey. In her private practice, she counsels teens and works to give them the tools they need to navigate life. Keri takes a holistic approach to therapy, looking at the whole person, not just their symptoms. Keri is the author of Mental Health Uncensored: 10 Foundations Every Parent Needs To Know, a book designed to give parents steps on how to improve their child’s mental health. Her second book is a workbook for teens, Mental Health Uncensored: 10 Foundations Every Teen Needs To Know. She is a graduate of the University Of Pennsylvania and when Keri isn't busy working with teens, she is busy with her own four children and her flock of chickens.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Keri shares the link between our physical and mental health and gives you actionable steps to take right now to use the 5 physical foundations we cover in this episode to improve your overall wellbeing.

Keri and I cover the following topics:

Hydration: Often overlooked, it’s important for detoxification, focus, and whole-body health.
Sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential for optimal functioning and emotional regulation.
Nutrition: Nourishing your body and maintaining a healthy gut is necessary to produce the chemicals needed to thrive.
Movement: Regular exercise that raises your heart rate (even for a short duration) is key to improving your health and getting into a good headspace.
Meditation: Mindfulness practices that keep you in the moment help reduce anxiety and depression.

These foundational practices may seem obvious yet many of us ignore the fundamentals when we need them most. The key to improving your mental health isn’t expensive or complex; it all comes down to the basics.

CONNECT WITH KERI COOPER:

Mental Health Uncensored: 10 Foundations Every Parent Needs to Know

Mental Health Uncensored Teen Workbook: 10 Foundations Every Teen Needs to Know

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Check out the blog post for this episode to see all related podcast episodes.

Dance Song Playlist V3

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Early Signs of Burnout That May Surprise You

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Stress Management Episodes Playlist

We often think of burnout as something obvious and big–where we cross a line and that’s it! We’re down for the count. But burnout is more nuanced than that and the early and more subtle signs can zip by us undetected, leading us to hit rock bottom and ask ourselves, “How did I get here?” This week, episode 206 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about the early signs of burnout that may surprise you!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how burnout is not something that only happens once, especially when constantly left untreated, and I offer actionable steps to take right now to spot it quicker so that you can come back from it fully and create a life that doesn’t welcome it.

I cover the following topics:

Defining burnout (physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion) and its cause (prolonged stress).
6 early signs of burnout you’ll want to watch for.
Examples of practices you can start today to check in with yourself regularly and detect burnout early on.

Consistent self-reflection is essential to spot differences in your behavior and pinpoint why these differences are happening. When you spot them early, you can adjust quickly, getting ahead of the burnout andboosting your overall well-being.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

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Why Some Stress Actually Helps You Perform Better

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Positively Productive Stress Management Episode Playlist

We often refer to all types of stress just as “stress” but there is a difference between eustress (good stress) and distress (bad stress). When we make this distinction, we’re able to clearly see how some stress can be a useful tool (is, in fact, necessary) for increasing productivity. This week, episode 205 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why some stress actually helps you perform better.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I share how different levels of stress impact our well-being and productivity and give you actionable steps to take right now to find the right balance of stress to get into a state of focus and flow.

I cover the following topics:

Stress itself is neither good nor bad, but our response to stressors determines whether or not it serves us.
Examples of how stress can increase short-term performance and focus by boosting adrenaline.
The Yerkes-Dodson law that shows us the relationship between arousal (i.e., stress) and performance.
Types of arousal (mental, emotional, or physical) and factors that affect your level of arousal.

Like everything else, it all comes down to self-awareness. You will know when you’re in the optimal range of stress when your mental capacity, attentiveness, processing speed, and ability to learn and make decisions are at their best.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

Could you use some support? Ready for a quick win and to try coaching with Lisa? The Productivity Boost session is a speed-round strategy that is highly effective for shifting a habit, quickly reviewing your weekly schedule, discussing productivity-related tech and systems, and moving past decision hurdles for prioritizing. You'll walk away encouraged and inspired to take action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpboost for a very special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Why Bringing Nature Inside Will Help You Focus Better with Kasey Riley

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Biophilic design is an incredible way to restore focus, enhance productivity and creativity, reduce stress, and improve overall wellness. The good news is, you may already be using it without even realizing it. Kasey Riley joins us today to share how this type of design, indicating a “love of life,” brings nature indoors and has a myriad of benefits. This week, episode 204 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about why bringing nature inside will help you focus better!

Kasey Riley is the Co-Founder and CMO of The Fat Plant Society, a biophilic design studio creating green walls and biophilic designs from real moss that doesn’t require watering or misting. They create with moss from American forests that’s hand-harvested with respect for the plant and its surroundings. Kasey and her husband Morten Klinte turned their love of all things green into a business that enhances interiors and the wellness of those who inhabit it.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Kasey shares the incredible benefits that come with going out into nature and alternatively, bringing nature inside. She gives actionable steps you can take right now to incorporate biophilic design into your home.

Kasey and I cover the following topics:

The threads of history that show us how humans have always had an affinity to nature and a psychological pull to appreciate other forms of life.
Scientifically proven mental health and cognitive benefits of being exposed to nature.
Dormant moss as a low expense, low maintenance way to bring nature into your home.

We often underestimate the benefits of nature, but this conversation is a beautiful reminder of how we can use what is around us to increase our overall well-being.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of it to post in your stories and tag me! Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH KASEY RILEY:

The Fat Plant Society

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Ep 198: Notetaking Inspiration to Easily Organize Your Life with Emily Aborn

Ep 176: A Surprisingly Effective Alternative to Multi-tasking

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How Breathing Can Calm Your Body and Better Your Mood with Jenny Cheifetz

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:00:00 -0400

It’s amazing what a deep breath can do, especially when you’re feeling agitated or stressed. Jenny Cheifetz, a certified breathwork facilitator joins us to dive deep into how we can use breathwork as a tool to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and more. This week, episode 203 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how breathing can calm your body and better your mood!

Jenny Cheifetz is a certified breathwork facilitator and empowerment coach at Jentle Coaching. She helps women find peace, confidence, and self-love so they can finally feel good enough to course-correct toward happiness. She is a wife, mom of two teens and two dogs, native New Englander, and avid podcast listener.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Jenny Cheifetz shares what breathwork is (and is not) and gives you actionable steps to take right now to use breathwork as a tool to manage your anxiety and mood.

Jenny and I cover the following topics:

A glimpse into what a breathwork session with a facilitator may look like.
How breathwork helps regulate the nervous system and manages energy.
Simple breathwork techniques you can incorporate into your daily life.
Suggested breathing patterns to help you boost your mood or calm anxiety, depending on what you need in the current moment.

Breathwork is a form of self-care and (as we have covered many times on the podcast before) self-care is a priority because YOU are a priority.

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to http://www.positivelyproductive.com/podcastvault where the promo code PODCAST will give you a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH JENNY CHEIFETZ:

Facebook

Spotify Playlist

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Mindfulness Practices to Help You Focus with Lindsay Coward | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Breathwork to Reduce Stress and Anxiety with Sarah Novak | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawr

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7 Reasons Diets Fail and What to Do Instead with Alisha Carlson

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Dieting is a HUGE industry, and yet, 95% of diets don’t work. That’s because the diets pushed on us are often rooted in fear, guilt, and shame, masking themselves as a healthy lifestyle change that doesn’t hold up in the long term. Today’s guest Alisha Carlson found this out the hard way and set out to do better, helping women find balance while still reaching their goals. This week, episode 202 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about 7 reasons diets fail and what to do instead!

Alisha Carlson is a non-diet lifestyle coach for women. She uses a holistic approach to help her clients create food and time freedom, fitness, and overall lifestyle transformation without feeling deprived or restricted around food. She teaches women how to radically love themselves, their bodies, and their lives before they ever lose a pound by healing their relationship to food, exercise, their bodies, and themselves.

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, Alisha Carlson shares how even with a background in exercise science and extensive knowledge of nutrition, she fell into the appeal of diet culture herself and she gives you actionable steps to take right now to approach dieting in a healthy, sustainable way.

Alisha and I cover the following topics:

Defining the word ‘diet’ (how it can be used as a noun and a verb, with different implications for each).
7 reasons why diets often fail.
Why it’s essential to reflect on your honest intentions around dieting.
Steps you can take to approach diet in a realistic, healthy, and sustainable way.

For productivity and dieting alike, understanding your why will drive you forward to find the right habits and the right way to do things for YOU.

CONNECT WITH ALISHA CARLSON:

The Strong(her) Way Podcast

The Strong(her) Way App

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

PLP: Ditch the Diet and Eat Intuitively with Megan Hadley

PLP: Give Yourself More with Georgie Fear

The Life Coach School Podcast

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How To Make Sure You're Productive Versus Busy

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

The Difference Between Busy and Productive | by John Spencer | Medium

Productivity is not something you strive for on principle or an endgame unto itself. It’s important to recognize that we’re not trying to be productive for productivity’s sake, but rather to support who we are, the life we want to live, and the goals we wish to achieve. This week, episode 201 of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast is about how to make sure you’re productive vs. busy!

In this episode of the Positively LivingⓇ Podcast, I am sharing the difference between taking action and being productive and giving you steps to take right now to get clear on the life you want to live and to start taking aligned (productive) action toward it.

I also cover the following topics:

Being productive towards your goals starts with setting SMART goals for yourself.
5 tips to help you get and stay on the track of productivity.
Common reasons that might hinder your productivity and knowing when to pivot when necessary.

If we’re not clear on the direction we want to go in life, we might find ourselves busy without being productive at all. To be truly productive, we must be clear on goals and focus on the tasks that will have the biggest impact on those goals.

Learn more about Positively LivingⓇ and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

What Being Productive Really Means for You | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Why You Must Savor and Celebrate Your Success (buzzsprout.com)

Five Ways to Make Procrastination Work for You | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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200 Episodes of Positively Living®

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0400

Manpreet Bawa 🧠 | LinkedIn

The Positively Living Podcast is celebrating 200 episodes! In honor of that, my friend and former guest, Manpreet Bawa, is stepping in as guest host for a special interview so you can get to know the host behind the mic. This week, episode 200 of the Positively Living Podcast is about celebration and reflection!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I am reflecting on my podcasting journey–what brought me to 200 episodes—and how I hope to continue serving my audience in the future.

Manpreet and I cover the following topics:

The life experiences that brought me to starting a podcast (instead of writing a book as intended).
My favorite moments of impact that have come as a result of the podcast.
How podcasting and caregiving intertwine through the service of others.
Learning that self-care is critical for showing up authentically and serving.
A glimpse into my process of providing valuable content for my listeners.

Life will always be coming at you with challenges. All you can do is find the best tools to navigate it and that's what I hope to continue sharing in the next 200 episodes.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH MANPREET BAWA:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

PLP Ep 34: My Caregiving and Clutter Story

PLP Ep 100: 100 Episodes of Positively Living

PLP Ep 101: Being Versus Doing with Manpreet Bawa

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Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Using the 80/20 Principle to Leverage a Better Life

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 116: The Most Important Boundary for People Pleasers | Positively Productive Systems LLC

The 80/20 principle states that for many outcomes, roughly 80% of the effects come from 20% of the causes. This means that a small number of inputs can often produce a large amount of outputs. When applied to all areas of our lives, we can see that using the 80/20 principle can boost productivity, and happiness, and improve our lives overall. This week, episode 199 of the Positively Living Podcast is about using the 80/20 principle to leverage a better life!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing where the 80/20 principle originated from and giving you actionable steps to take right now to apply this principle in your daily life.

I cover the following topics:

Where the 80/20 principle originated and examples of where it takes place in life.
Ways that you can apply this principle to various areas of your life to boost productivity, learn and grow, and be happier.
3 simple steps you can use to make the 80/20 principle work for you.

Ask yourself: What do you have in your life that feels like too much and feels like you’re not getting the results you want? And how can you apply the 80/20 principle to it?

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Ep 117: How to Say No Without Feeling Guilty or Rude | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Ep 197: Seek Happiness to Be More Productive | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Notetaking Inspiration to Easily Organize Your Life with Emily Aborn

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0500

How to Organize Notes and Ideas | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Notetaking goes beyond capturing information. It helps you organize, process, and engage with the information. This week, episode 198 of the Positively Living Podcast is about notetaking inspiration to easily organize your life!

Emily Aborn is a Content Copywriter, Speaker, and Host of the Content with Character and She Built This podcasts. She lives in Temple, NH with her husband, Jason, and their snuggle-loving dog, Clyde. She enjoys hiking, reading, being a Jeopardy contestant from her couch, and writing.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Emily Aborn and I share each of our notetaking techniques and explain why they work for each of us individually. We also share what we use to take notes and offer actionable steps you can take right now to try notetaking in a way that works for YOU.

Emily and I cover the following topics:

How taking notes helps to remember important details, act on ideas, brainstorm, and stay present during conversations.
Our favorite methods and tools for note taking and different use cases for each.
A good first step to get yourself into the habit of notetaking.

Notetaking is a technique with endless methods. To uncover what works best for you, start by understanding why you’re notetaking, then choose and try some options to see what works best.

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to http://www.positivelyproductive.com/podcastvault where the promo code PODCAST will give you a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH EMILY ABORN:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

3 Simple Systems to Organize Your Life + Business | Positively Productive Systems LLC

The Benefits of Therapeutic Journaling for Mental Health | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Stress-Free Content Creation with Emily Aborn | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Using Collaboration to Boost Visibility with Emily Aborn | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Choosing Your Creative Collaborative Platform with Emily Aborn and Alesia Galati | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Seek Happiness to Be More Productive

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Intentional Happiness with Julie Leonard | Positively Productive Systems LLC

We all want to be productive, but at what cost? Often people place mastering productivity as their #1 priority, which can actually limit happiness. We need to reverse this order to get the most benefit. This week, episode 197 of the Positively Living Podcast is about seeking happiness to be more productive!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing how prioritizing your happiness actually makes you more productive in the long-term and giving you simple steps to take right now to seek more happiness in your life.

If you focus on being productive, you may or may not be happy. However, if you focus on being happy, you’ll get happiness and an amazing byproduct called productivity.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Work Smarter Not Harder with Loubna Zarrou | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Freedom from the Hustle | Positively Productive Systems LLC

How a Joy List Can Make You More Productive | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

The Magic of Whole Life Decluttering [Round Up]

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Declutter Episodes Playlist

Through my experiences, both as someone dealing with clutter and someone who’s helped hundreds of clients deal with it, I know that decluttering is one of the most beneficial habits we can incorporate into our lives. This week, in episode 196 of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m featuring 10 episodes that feature the topic of decluttering, in every part of our lives.

The episodes I cover today include:

Ep #17: How Simplicity Sparks Joy with Tim Lucier where we discuss Marie Kondo’s approach to decluttering, highlighting its elements of simplicity and gratitude.
Ep #18: Declutter through Delegation with Liz August where we discuss entrepreneurial clutter and remind ourselves that we don’t have to tackle it alone.
Ep #22: Clutter Free Gift Giving with Katie Zurawski in which she gives actionable steps you can take to start planning gifts that wont add clutter to your life or your recipients’.
Ep #27: Declutter Toys with Danielle Bettman where we cover decluttering children’s toys and show how mental and emotional decluttering play an important role.
Ep #140: How to Declutter Your Mind in One Simple Step in which I share the process I take all of my clients through to understand the different types of mental clutter and the one step you can take to declutter your mind (which helps you declutter your life).
Ep #145: 6 Reasons Why Decluttering is a Form of Self-care where I explain what clutter is and why I believe decluttering is an act of self-care by making space for what matters, including you.
Ep #152: 3 Areas of Your Life You Need to Spring Clean where I explain how this practice—which dates back 1,000 years—is a wonderful way to reset the spaces in our lives.
Ep #154: How Reverse Decluttering Can Quickly Reduce Stress where I highlight a simple technique you can use to take action towards your clutter when you’re too overwhelmed to declutter traditionally.
Ep #164: Strategy Call: Decluttering and Habit Management for Multi-passionate Creatives where I coach Katie Henson on small ways she can adjust her day to reach her goals, approach clutter, and make space for what she loves.
Ep #168: Boost Productivity and Well-being with a Toxic People Detox where I share how to recognize toxic influences/people in our lives and how to remove them, making space for people that encourage and support you.

It’s essential to take a whole-life approach to decluttering because it connects to all aspects of life. Focus on decluttering and see how freeing it is when you release what doesn’t serve you.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Tim Lucier- The Habit Reset

Liz August- Simplify, Simplify

Katie Zurawksi- The Decluttering Queen

Danielle Bettman- Parenting Wholeheartedly

Ep 34: My Caregiving and Clutter Story | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Meditation as a Direct Path to Life Harmony [Re-release]

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Ten Percent Happier Podcast

Incorporating meditation into your life is effective for stress management, focus, and so much more. But it only works if you practice it in a way that works for you. This week, episode 195 of the Positively Living Podcast is about using meditation as a direct path to life harmony.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I share the benefits you’ll receive when you start incorporating meditation into your life and I give you actionable steps to take right now to implement a meditation practice that feels good to you.

I cover the following topics:

Meditations full potential to help the body calm and heal on a practical level.
How meditation allows your mind and body to settle into a state of balance.
Using meditation as a decluttering technique and its link to productivity and organizing.
What the “downside” to meditation really is.

Progress, not perfection is key here. And the good news is that you’ll benefit from each and every session, no matter how poorly you think your meditation time went.

Could you use some support? Ready for a quick win and to try coaching with Lisa? The Quickstart session is a speed-round strategy that is highly effective for shifting a habit, quickly reviewing your weekly schedule, discussing productivity related tech and systems, and moving past decision hurdles for prioritizing. You'll walk away encouraged and inspired to take action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpboost for a very special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Chopra Center Meditation

PLP How to Meditate Easily through Creative Expression with Jennifer Faye Colombo

PLP 3 Simple Steps When you Need a Mental Reset

PLP How Your Body Responds to Stress with Christa Bevan

PLP How to Tap Into Your Wisdom with Kavita Melwani

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Why Simplifying Is More Important Than Organizing

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0500

[Strategy Call] Decluttering and Habit Management for Multi-Passionate Creatives with Katie Henson | Positively Productive Systems LLC

It’s my goal in every podcast episode to keep things simple because no matter who we are or what our situation is, simplifying can help, especially in a world that offers us plenty of complexity. This week, episode 194 of the Positively Living Podcast is about why simplifying is more important than organizing!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I share why we so often resist simplicity, embracing complexity instead and I give you actionable steps to take right now to begin simplifying areas of your life.

I cover the following topics:

Defining the word ‘simplify’.
How something called the complexity bias keeps us from simplifying our life.
How decluttering and simplifying (two of my favorite words) go hand in hand.
Questions to ask yourself when evaluating places in your life you can start to simplify.

Simplifying your life not only eases stress and speeds things up, it creates that space for you that you deserve.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

How to Make Your Network Work for You with Sara Lowell and Dana Johnson

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Entrepreneur Encounter Podcast

Your network is not only built from potential clients, but also potential investors, collaborators, and connectors that can take your business to the next level. Building a strong and diverse network is key to your personal and professional success. This week, episode 193 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how to make your network work for you!

Both lifelong learners and business owners, Sara Lowell has a professional background in workforce advocacy and Dana Johnson has a BS in Hospitality Management that she has used in various areas of event planning. Together, they are the hosts of the Entrepreneur Encounter podcast and community where they help business owners elevate their services with simplicity through soft-skill training. They create a clear path to improving client relationships and building consistent referral streams.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Sara Lowell and Dana Johnson share the benefits of building a network and give you actionable steps to take right now to connect with others in an authentic, genuine way.

Sara, Dana, and I cover the following topics:

What your network is and isn’t. It isn’t just the people who will eventually buy from you but your industry friends, mentors, investors, collaborators, and referral partners.
Approaching networking from a relationship, not revenue, perspective.
Best practices for how to approach network building both online and in-person.
How to nurture and leverage your network once you’ve started building it.

The point of networking is first and foremost to connect with others to build trust and community. And if you do it right, the revenue will follow.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH SARA AND DANA:

Entrepreneur Encounter FB Group

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Entrepreneur Encounter Podcast: Boosting Productivity for Multi-Passionate Entrepreneurs w/ Lisa Zawrotny

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Simple Email Automation That Will Generate More Business Leads with James Allen

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0500

What if I told you that you could make more money by doing less work? Today’s guest has done just that for himself and now helps others take what they’re already doing and turn it into passive income using a simple, automated email sequence. This week, episode 192 of the Positively Living Podcast is about a simple email automation that will generate more business leads!

Originally a productivity coach, James Allen was obsessed with how to work fewer hours while simultaneously growing his income, which led him to learn about creating passive income with digital products. As the founder of Profit Your Knowledge, James has a passion for helping people turn their knowledge, ideas, and skills into an automated income that not only gives them more money but also more freedom and fulfillment.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, James Allen shares his formula for generating passive income and gives you the actionable steps you can take right now to connect with more qualified leads, without doing more work.

James and I cover the following topics:

A simple place to start adding automation into your business.
3 types of evergreen content you can use to capture your audience’s attention.
Simple steps to go from creating a lead magnet to automating emails that connect you with more leads.
Tools and platforms you may consider using to build your email list and automate email sequences.

Remember, like any habit, start small and start simply. Once you get things in place, you can add more bells and whistles if needed.

CONNECT WITH JAMES ALLEN:

PLP: Streamlining Your Business with Melissa Morris

Download his FREE guide: 50 Plug & Play Title Formulas

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Listen to Lisa’s episode on the Profit Your Knowledge Podcast

PLP: Creating a Client Journey with Devin Lee

PLP: Comparing Mailerlite and Mail Chimp with Monica Pitts

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

What You Need to Get Organized and Write That Book with Judi Harrington

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0500

Like a high percentage of the population, I’ve always wanted to write a book. And also like a high percentage of the population, I haven’t… yet. But my guest today has and she’s helped others do so too. Our conversation today will not only guide you on how to write that book you’ve been thinking about, it will encourage you to consider when to write it so you can join the small percentage of people who succeed in getting their book out into the world! This week, episode 191 of the Positively Living Podcast is about what you need to get organized and write that book!

Judi Harrington is a business storyteller, author, and writing coach who believes we all have a story to tell. She writes website copy, blogs, newsletters, and email funnels for solopreneurs and business owners, ensuring their message speaks to their ideal customer and inspires them to take action. She's the author of "Fuckery: The Life and Times of a Legend (In Her Own Mind)," a humorous memoir in essays celebrating her family's credo of "putting the 'fun' In 'dysfunctional'" which was released in October 2022. She is also a sought-after editor and writing coach for business owners who want to write a book adjacent to their business.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Judi Harrington shares the shocking statistics of people who want to write a book compared to the number of people who get their publication out into the world and gives you actionable steps to take right now to get organized so you can finally write your book!

Judi and I cover the following topics:

3 main blocks that keep people from writing their book.
How writing a book is not perfect or linear- it takes time, dedication, and messy action.
Releasing the expectations you’re holding over your book so you can get into the habit of writing.
Simple systems (on a free platform) that you can use to get organized and make your book happen.

We all have a story to tell but we have to put in the effort to decide how and when we want to tell it.

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to http://www.positivelyproductive.com/podcastvault where the promo code PODCAST will give you a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH JUDI HARRINGTON:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

3 Simple Steps When you Need a Mental Reset

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0500

We are constantly plugged into our world through the handheld screens that tell us everything we need to know instantaneously. As a questioner and a researcher, I adore being in an information age but recognize the downsides. This constant flow of information you once found helpful can become harmful in certain situations and can snowball your stress and anxiety, never giving you a chance to catch a break. This means you have to create a break for yourself and disconnect. This week, episode 190 of the Positively Living Podcast is about 3 simple steps when you need a mental reset!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I share the importance of taking a step back to reflect on whether the things in our lives are supporting or sabotaging us and give you 3 actionable steps to take right now to disconnect, giving yourself a mental reset so you can come back better than before.

I cover the following topics:

Step 1: How to CLEAR (declutter) your mental space to remove the things constantly pulling at your attention.
Step 2: How you must CALM your body to claim your mind. Things like breathwork, meditation, and nervous system regulation, help you let go of the stress you’re holding onto (and might not realize).
Step 3: Why CARE is essential. Practicing self-care and prioritizing yourself, above everything else, is necessary for a reset and helpful for resilience.

There are endless ways you can perform a mental reset.Try not to get overwhelmed by all these options. Pick ONE thing from each step and try it to see what works for you.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

For a full list of episodes mentioned, head over to the blog post for this episode.

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Why Compassion is Essential to Be More Productive

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500

What Being Productive Really Means for You

A recent event happened that caused me to pause my work and be there for my family. This challenged me to walk my talk, redefine what it means to be productive at this moment and in this season of life, and practice compassionate productivity on myself. This week, episode 189 of the Positively Living Podcast is about why compassion is essential to be more productive!

In this episode, I share how I’ve come to teach what I once needed to learn, guiding clients with compassionate productivity, and I offer you actionable steps to take right now to seek more compassion so you can avoid burnout.

I cover the following topics:

The physical and mental benefits of compassion, both inward and outward.
3 types of compassion (from the author of Mindful Compassion, Dr. Paul Gilbert).
Reframing our idea of productivity in order to achieve our best work.
How energy management is a key part of compassionate productivity.
Who compassionate productivity is meant for.

I encourage you to embrace more compassion in your life. Think about the types of compassion and check in with yourself to see where you need support and focus.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

(3) Deeper Purpose of Productivity | LinkedIn

Forgiveness and Resilience with R. Patryce Bryant | Positively Productive Systems LLC

How To Ask For Help When You’re a Giver | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

How a Joy List Can Make You More Productive

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Why the Simple Act of Pausing Will Make You More Productive | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Among the many things I wish for you, joy is at the top of the list. It may seem obvious why, but there is so much more to it than your happiness and, unsurprisingly, productivity is part of it. When you integrate more joy into your daily routine, you not only experience pleasure and positive emotions, but you give your brain and body a much-needed break from stress and monotony. These breaks enhance your focus and problem-solving, making joy a catalyst for enhanced productivity. This week, episode 188 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how a Joy List can make you more productive!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I encourage you to make a list of everything, big or small, that brings you joy in life (your Joy List) and I give you the steps needed to use that list and easily integrate more joy into your life.

I cover the following topics:

Research based evidence that shows how positive emotions are linked to your success, both personally and professionally.
What a Joy List is and how to quickly create your own.
How keeping a Joy List is the key to accessing your joy, even in times it feels difficult.
Using your Joy List as a personalized self-care guide to recharge and nourish yourself, paying attention to the positive changes that come from it.

Do not underestimate the power of joy. Seeking it is not a frivolous pursuit to be seen as optional, it’s a strategic tool for living your best life.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Manage Stress through Rest and Play with Gary Ware | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

How to Figure Out Your Planning Style with Kylie Ota

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Countless frameworks exist and even overlap one another to help us gain self-awareness and uncover why we work the way we do. Today we’re exploring yet another way to use self-awareness as a planning and productivity tool to help you get organized and avoid burnout. This week, episode 187 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how to figure out your planning style!

Kylie Ota, is a NLP-certified life coach and business strategist specializing in burnout recovery for high-achieving female entrepreneurs. With a background in Army Behavioral Science and oil + gas management, Kylie helps entrepreneurs find their business personality type and create a balanced life and successful business without compromising their well-being or relationships.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Kylie Ota shares how understanding your personality type helps remove the shame and guilt that comes up when comparing yourself to others and actionable steps to take right now to tweak your planning style to your archetype and increase your productivity.

Kylie and I cover the following topics:

How her four planning archetypes: Powerhouse, Popular, Philanthropist, and Perfectionist loosely relate to the DISC personality types.
The tendencies, challenges, and best planning practices for each archetype.
Which archetype struggles the most with planning and areas the other types can support one another.
The benefits to understanding your type as well as the archetypes of the people around you.

Keep in mind the archetypes we talk about today were created by one coach and are not intended to limit you, but rather to encourage you to self-identify, appreciate what you are doing and how you work best, and find freedom in the process.

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to http://www.positivelyproductive.com/podcastvault where the promo code PODCAST will give you a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH KYLIE OTA:

Take the Quiz! To Find Your Own Archetype + Receive Specific Guidance on Business Management Tips

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

PLP 94: Tips to Avoid Burnout Based on Enneagram Type with Sarah Lynn

PLP 181: How to Improve Your Productivity Using the Four Tendencies

PLP 29: Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

PLP 160: Seasonal Planning for Neurodiverse Entrepreneurs with Erik Fisher

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

How Mind Mapping Helps All Brain Types Focus Better with Jamie Chapman

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 00:00:00 -0500

As we continue to explore tools that will work best for you, it’s time to feature a classic called mind mapping, a tool you can use to diagram your thoughts and ideas. If your brain is overwhelmed and making lists isn’t helping, mind mapping may be the tool you need to help you focus and plan. This week, episode 186 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how mind mapping helps all brain types focus better!

Jamie Chapman is a Consultant for Small Business Owners. She takes a holistic view of life and business and loves working with compassionate, empathetic human beings who want to thrive in all areas of their lives and grow strategically and systematically. Jamie doesn't believe in cookie-cutter solutions for business, so she takes an individualized, multifaceted approach to problem-solving so you can move forward in a way that’s unique to you.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Jamie shares how our creative entrepreneur brains challenge us to stay focused, and she gives you actionable steps to take right now to try mind mapping. Listen and let’s see if you want to add to your productivity tool box.

Jamie and I cover the following topics:

What is mind mapping and areas of our life and business we might use it for.
How mind mapping can address our surplus of ideas, both in terms of ideation and project planning.
The distinction between a mind map and a venn diagram (both having to do with relationships).
Inspiration and steps you can use to try mind mapping out yourself.

Small steps truly make a huge difference. I encourage you to try mind mapping. Keep it as simple as possible with just one idea to start. Then, you can work your way up to bigger, more complex brainstorming projects.

CONNECT WITH JAMIE CHAPMAN:

Entrepreneurs Brain Trust

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Advantages of Visual Thinking with Brandy Agerbeck

How to Navigate New Ideas as a Multi-passionate Creative with Laura Livingston

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

How To Ask For Help When You're a Giver

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Am I Codependent with Mallory Jackson | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Asking for help is a challenge for many of us, especially those of us that are givers. But while the reasons we deny ourselves may feel noble, the results can be problematic. This week, episode 185 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how to ask for help when you’re a giver!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I share that while the message of giving over receiving is well intended, it may discourage asking for help. I also give you actionable and manageable steps to take right now to ask for help and feel good about doing so.

I cover the following topics:

Psychological reasons why we—especially those of us who are people pleasers and givers— struggle to ask for help.
Scientifically proven reasons why asking for help is to our benefit.
5 tips to support you in asking for help.

If you are a giver, I honor you and your heart and thank you for making this world a better place. But I urge you to focus on receiving too, because both are essential.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

The Most Important Boundary for People Pleasers | Positively Productive Systems LLC

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

How to Meditate Easily through Creative Expression with Jennifer Faye Colombo

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0500

What I love most about being a productivity strategist is finding unique ways to achieve our goals that fit with who we are and how we work. Today’s guest helps us do just that as we explore how we can use art as a form of meditative practice. This week, episode 184 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how to meditate easily through creative expression!

Jennifer Faye Colombo is an artist, creative guide, and designer of card decks and journals. She believes we are all creative and have the ability to use art to gain insights, for self-care, to tap into the creative flow and more no matter one's level of experience. In addition to empowering others to tap into their creativity, Jen helps coaches, energy healers and other entrepreneurs to create products to support their client's journeys outside of sessions.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Jennifer Faye Colombo reminds us that we are all creative beings–no matter how we choose to express it–and she gives actionable steps you can take right now to use creative expression as a supplement or a replacement to common meditation practices.

Jennifer and I cover the following topics:

Letting go of any perfectionism and leaning into the flow you might feel.
Simple and specific steps for a fast practice (i.e., 3-5 minutes of your day).
Prompts to use when reflecting on your practice.
The best times and circumstances to bring this practice out of your toolbox.

CONNECT WITH JENNIFER FAYE COLOMBO:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

PLP 169: Advantages of Visual Thinking with Brandy Agerbeck

PLP 47: Accessing Creativity through Mindfulness with Izolda Trakhtenberg

PLP 131: Manage Stress through Rest and Play with Gary Ware

PLP 137: How to Create a Vision Board That Works

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzspr

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

No Fail Gratitude Journal Approach for Your Busy Life

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0500

While tapping into your gratitude and expressing it can be achieved in many ways, there is a reason gratitude journaling is so popular. It’s incredibly effective so I would be doing you a disservice if I didn't expand on the benefits of this particular practice. This week, episode 183 of the Positively Living Podcast is about no fail gratitude journal approach for your busy life!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I share why journaling is a powerful tool for mental health and business for self-discovery and development. I also give you actionable steps to take right now to go deeper with your gratitude practice through journaling.

I cover the following topics:

A review of gratitude and why we need to practice it.
How, despite being a creative, I struggled with bullet journaling.
A 5-step approach to get past the challenges and get into the habit of gratitude journaling.
Why you do NOT want to ask “What am I grateful for?” and what to do instead (using similar words to reframe your thoughts)
A set of gratitude prompts to get you started.

As you move forward with this practice I hope that when you read back what you’re grateful for it surprises and delights you, as well as fills and heals your heart.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

PLP Ep 4: The Power of Gratitude

PLP Ep 132: 4 Ways You Are Already Practicing Gratitude

PLP Ep 159: Why You Must Savor and Celebrate Your Success

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Internal Family Systems As a Proven Treatment for Burnout with Katie LaCelle

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 00:00:00 -0500

As we’ve discussed in past episodes, burnout is all too common, and that is all the more reason to focus podcast content on healing. It’s time to explore another tool from our personalized productivity toolbox–Internal Family Systems (IFS)–an evidence-based approach to tackling burnout as well as other chronic conditions. This week, episode 182 of the Positively Living Podcast is about using Internal Family Systems as a proven treatment for burnout

Katie LaCelle is a somatic IFS practitioner who is passionate about helping people uncover their own internal wise leaders and reconnect with their deepest embodied intuition. IFS, or internal family systems, is a trauma-informed therapy modality that can help you get present, rewire your brain, and regulate your nervous system. In her spare time, Katie coaches others to and performs herself on the flying trapeze.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Katie helps us understand IFS and how this trauma-informed therapy model can help you get present, regulate your nervous system, and even rewire your brain.

Katie and I cover the following topics:

The burdens we pick up along the course of our lives to make us feel safe.
Understanding the parts within us and the roles they play.
The 8 C’s of softening and reintegrating back to yourself.
Getting to the underlying problems to recover from burnout and avoid it altogether.
The first step to bringing more curiosity to your system.

CONNECT WITH KATIE LACELLE:

Book a discovery call to learn more about IFS & see if you might be a good fit to work together

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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PLP Ep 53: Am I Codependent with Mallory Jackson

PLP Ep 29: Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

PLP Ep 7: The Impact of Stress and How to Manage it for Good

PLP Ep 79: How Your Body Responds to Stress with Christa Bevan

PLP Ep 99: Emotions, Intuition, and Authenticity with Kristen Kubik

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How to Improve Your Productivity Using the Four Tendencies

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies Assessment

Assessments like Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies are the key to living a happier, more productive life. That's because these types of assessments allow us to become more self-aware, letting us evaluate who we are and what we do, manage our emotions, align our behavior, and understand how others perceive us. Self-awareness also leads to finding self-acceptance, nurturing self-compassion, becoming clear on our limits and boundaries, and, as such, improving our productivity. This week, episode 181 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how to improve your productivity using the Four Tendencies!

In this episode, I’m sharing how you can use the Four Tendencies Assessment to better understand why you do (or don’t do) something and how unlocking this understanding can help you with self-mastery, influencing others to do things, reduce frustration and even improve relationships when you better understand yourself and others.

I cover the following topics:

An overview of each of the four tendencies in the context of what it means to be productive.
Using the most effective habit strategy for each type to help yourself and others optimize productivity.
Famous examples of characters that reflect each type.

Keep in mind that no assessment is foolproof and many aspects of your character come into play when you determine how you work best. The Four Tendencies Assessment is a jumping-off point that is especially good for helping you take action in a way that suits you best.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/.

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What Stress Really Is and How to Manage It [Re-release]

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

In early 2020 I became a certified stress management coach because I believed that stress was both an underlying cause of my clients’ problems as well as a distracting symptom blocking their progress. I’ve come to find out that stress can be a double-edged sword, being helpful, hurtful, or both! Stress can simultaneously push you towards achieving your goals or have harmful impacts on your health. That’s why episode 180 of The Positively Living Podcast is about what stress really is and how to manage it!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of stress management (not always stress reduction) and actionable steps you can take right now to manage your stress for good. I cover the following topics:

Two types of stress and three types of stressors.
My own experience with Eustress and Distress.
How Eustress connects to optimal productivity.
The biological response to stress and the link to physical ailments connected to distress.
Tips for managing stress in your life and a free checklist to help you get started.

When you become aware of what your stressors are and how they shift depending on what you do and what you think, you will become much more effective at managing your stress.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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10 Steps to Stress Less - Checklist

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The Best Way for Creative Entrepreneurs to Build a Business with Lisa Robbin Young

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Whether we’re building a business, creating art, loving family and friends, or exploring the world, the quality of our lives is what matters most. Positive psychology helps us understand that leaning into our strengths will yield a more fulfilling life. Taking this same principle and applying it to our business yields tremendous results and today’s guest, Lisa Robbin Young, helps us see how we can do just that, especially as creatives. This week, episode 179 of the Positively Living Podcast is about the best way for creative entrepreneurs to build a business!

Lisa Robbin Young is an award-winning speaker, best-selling author, and accomplished musician with multiple albums to her credit. Lisa is the host of Creative Freedom and founder of Ark Entertainment Media - a growth consultancy for maverick micropreneurs who want a business that works for how they're wired to work. She believes that the best way to be successful is to be yourself - warts, sparkles, and all - so that you can Own Your Dreams Without Selling Your Soul (TM).

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Lisa Robbin Young shares how working in alignment can make your experience be less “effort full” and more “effort less” and she offers you actionable steps to take right now to build a business and life that you love based on your creative entrepreneur type.

Lisa and I cover the following topics:

Getting a good ROR (return on your resources).
Creative types and the spectrum we fall under.
Finding our ideal entrepreneur zone.
The choices we make (and the struggles we face) when getting into our zone of genius and excellence.

Find what you love and what you do well (which are often the same) and do more of that. Productivity, success, and fulfillment will follow.

CONNECT WITH LISA ROBBIN YOUNG:

Take the Creative Entrepreneur Type Quiz

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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PLP Ep. 121: How Your Personal and Business Brands Connect with Karley Cunningham

PLP Ep. 160: Seasonal Planning for Neurodiverse Entrepreneurs with Erik Fisher

PLP Ep. 128: How Our Current Brand Culture Leads to Burnout with Rachel Kay Albers

PLP Ep. 123: Serial Entrepreneur Superpowers with Nicole Schmied

PLP Ep. 119: How Productivity is Impacted by Seasonal Energy

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7 Techniques and Tools Used by a Productivity Expert

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Tech/ Tools Episode Playlist

I’ve avoided making an episode where I share the tools and techniques that help me keep my life organized because my focus as a coach is always to help you find what fits YOU and your life. Today I decided to offer a more detailed view of the systems that work for me in hopes that these details might inspire you and encourage you to see if they might work for you as well. This week, in episode 178 of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing 7 techniques and tools I use as a productivity expert!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing productivity techniques I use regularly, the tools that correspond with them, and I explain WHY they work for me to help you determine if they might work for you too.

The 7 tools and techniques I cover in this episode include:

Regularly doing a mind sweep.
Creating daily/weekly task lists.
Automating my tasks.
Creating templates for repeat tasks.
Building out checklists.
Leveraging scheduling and reminders.
Having a command center.

Just because a technique or tool works well for someone else doesn’t mean it is going to work for you. But you can take what others do as inspiration for what to research and try out as you explore what works best for YOU.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Trello

Todo List

PLP Ep. 140: How to Declutter Your Mind in One Simple Step

PLP Ep. 156: How to Reduce Mental Load as a Parent or Caregiver with Roxanne Ferber

Simplify Simplify

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How to Navigate New Ideas as a Multi-passionate Creative with Laura Livingston

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:00:00 -0400

As multi-passionate creatives, we are bombarded with ideas constantly. It can feel overwhelming because we want to execute them all immediately, but that can quickly lead to burnout. How do we know which ideas to follow? How can we implement the change in a way that feels good? This week, episode 177 with guest Laura Livingston of the Positively Living Podcast is about navigating new ideas as a multi-passionate creative!

Laura helps seasoned entrepreneurs who love what they do to create more fulfillment in their businesses. She coaches her clients through strategic decisions and pivotal business transitions to create the next iteration of their business – one that’s custom-designed just for them, and built around a life they love. Laura has deep knowledge and decades of experience creating change in both business and mindset, and she blends these 2 perspectives into her unique coaching style.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Laura Livingston shares how we can lean into change and let it work for us rather than hinder us. She also gives you actionable steps on how to decide what to focus on when there are so many ideas vying for your attention.

Laura Livingston and I discuss:

Why change can feel so difficult for all of us.
The challenges we face as multi-passionate creatives.
A key distinction between the visionary and execution sides of us.
Where decision-making works best in all of this.

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Ep 33: Embracing Change with Nicole Mixdorf

Ep 141: How to Know If You're a Multi-passionate Creative

Ep 74: Living a Multi-Passionate Life with Lauren Yee

Ep 122: Benefits of Being a Jack of All Trades with Mike Montague

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A Surprisingly Effective Alternative to Multi-tasking

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Multi-tasking is the idea of doing two things at once and it’s a myth because you can’t actually focus on two things at once. Now before you tell me everything you’ve done at the same time and how it’s on your resume because your boss required it, so it must be true…hear me out.

This week, episode 176 of the Positively Living Podcast is about a surprisingly effective alternative to multitasking!

What we consider to be multitasking is really “task switching.” And you might be brilliant at it. And many employers expect it regularly, which irks me, but it’s not a battle I can fight now.

With task switching, your brain shifts from one kind of focus to another, and if you have strong executive brain functions, you can do it in such a way that it seems simultaneous. However, even if you’re quite amazing at it, frequent task-switching is inherently problematic.

I discuss:

What multi-tasking is and how we’re trained to think it works.
Why multi-tasking doesn't work for most multi-passionates.
A more effective alternative to multi-tasking.
Examples of task combining and how to use it every day.

Strategic task combining is not a foolproof technique, but it is still far superior to task switching.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Ep 174: Why Multi-Passionates Need a Unique Productivity Strategy

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How Asana Helps You Organize Tasks and Projects with Kristen Lettini

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400

If you are looking for the project management software that works best for you, there will be multiple options that work well. We’ve even discussed many of them on the show. From there, you get to decide where you feel most at home and which software will fit your needs best. This week, episode 175 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how Asana helps you organize tasks and projects with guest Kristen Lettini!

Kristen Lettini believes life is too short to settle for anything less than the fairytale. A passionate problem solver who loves nerding out with her lean Six Sigma skills to simplify, color code and make connections, Kristen helps small business owners streamline and scale their processes, allowing them to bring even bigger dreams to life; she likes to think of it as a fairy godmother for your business. On her podcast, Build Your Own Fairytale, Kristen unlocks and shares the inspiration from female entrepreneurs who have paved their own career paths, outside the traditional 9-5.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Kristen Lettini and I are sharing more about the basics of Asana and helping you determine if it might be the right project/task management software for you.

Kristen and I discuss:

What Asana is and what it can do.
Who Asana works best for (and who it might not work for).
How Asana stacks against other software.
How to add the data into Asana (tips and tricks).
The privacy and settings available for Asana users.
Next steps to getting started with Asana.

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Ep 70: Is ClickUp Right for Me with Layla Pomper

Ep 89: How to Organize Your Business in Airtable with Melissa Guller

Ep 97: Trello for Business Productivity with Taylor Mobley

Lisa on Kristen’s podcast - Build Your Own Fairytale

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Why Multi-Passionate Creatives Need a Unique Productivity Strategy

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400

In a society that celebrates and elevates specialization and single-minded dedication, multi-passionate creatives can feel out of place, but in reality, they stand out. Their unique blend of talents and interests makes them some of the most creative and innovative people and potentially the busiest.

Unfortunately, traditional productivity approaches tend to be singular and linear, which isn’t a good fit for us. How, then, can multi-passionates honor their passions, achieve their goals, and avoid burnout when the approaches offered don’t apply to them?

This week, episode 174 of the Positively Living Podcast explains why multi-passionate creatives need a unique productivity strategy!

I discuss:

Why multi-passionate creatives need a unique productivity strategy.
The struggles that multi-passionates face today.
Why traditional productivity strategies don’t work for them.
My 5-part system to help creatives find harmony and productivity.

When you’re a multi-passionate, you possess a wealth of creativity and innovation. I know it can get you in trouble sometimes, but it’s also a set of superpowers you can lean into as you adopt a unique productivity strategy meant just for you.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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Ep 122: Benefits of Being a Jack of All Trades with Mike Montague

Ep 1: The #1 Tool to Achieve Productivity

Ep 163: The Big 5 Personality Traits: What They Mean for Your Productivity

Ep 73: [Strategy Call] Regain Momentum and Stay Productive with Stacy Kessler

Ep 124: [Strategy Call] Using School Themes to Time Block with Lauren Yee

Ep 125: [Strategy Call] Follow Up to School Style Time Blocking with Lauren Yee

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Building Confidence through Habits with Julie DeLucca-Collins

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 00:00:00 -0400

When trying to effect changes in our lives, we need to create new and healthy habits. But if you’ve ever tried to form a new habit, you know it isn’t easy. If we go all in with the habit, we’re less likely to maintain it. When that happens, we label it as failure, which reduces our confidence. Building habits the right way can reverse this. This week, episode 173 of the Positively Living Podcast is about building confidence through habits!

Julie DeLucca-Collins is the Founder and CEO of Go Confidently Services, the host of the popular Casa DeConfidence Podcast®, and her weekly Radio Show Confident You featured on a global talk radio network. As a Business and Life Strategist Coach, Julie helps women business owners launch or grow their businesses, get clients, and achieve their dreams and is a sought-after public speaker, trainer, and course creator.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Julie shares three things needed for us to create new behaviors and actions you can take today to create Tiny Habits®.

Julie and I discuss:

The importance of starting small and focusing on small wins.
How habits can give you comfort and confidence.
Why focusing on the next right step helps grow your confidence.
Power in evaluating your long-term goals, dreams, values, and priorities.
The importance of aligning your priorities.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Brooke Young

Ep 16 How to Harness the Power of Habits

Ep 159 Why You Must Savor and Celebrate Your Success

Ep 167 Freedom to Quit When Something No Longer Serves You with Paula Lesso

HabitBull

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Why the Simple Act of Pausing Will Make You More Productive

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400

The Default Mode Network: The Hidden Key to a Calmer, Happier, Content You - Partably

In today's hustle-happy world, productivity too often looks like constant action, which too often results in being busy versus productive. There’s a feeling that we “can’t stop, won’t stop,” and honestly, we don’t dare stop because if we do, we’ll miss out or not make the cut. Please don’t believe it. There is a better way to do it. This week, episode 172 of the Positively Living Podcast discusses why pausing will make you more productive!

Pausing for productivity means deliberately stepping away from your work, effort, or routine. The word suggests that this is temporary and likely for a short period, but the length of time can vary. In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing what it means to pause and giving you actionable steps to take right now to incorporate more pauses into your routine.

I cover:

Why we need to pause in all aspects of life.
Why pausing is like hitting the reset button for the mind.
The science behind the need for pausing.
Four benefits of pausing.
Examples of ways to pause, such as reflection and alignment review.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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How Do Work Breaks Help Your Brain? 5 Surprising Answers | Psychology Today

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How to Use AI to Enhance Your Digital Connections and Content with Christine McShane

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400

AI touches every part of our lives whether we recognize it or not. Regarding the content we create as business owners, some tools can help us brainstorm, optimize, and streamline. Still, we want to ensure we are actually creating those connections with our community. This week, episode 171 of the Positively Living Podcast is about using AI to enhance digital connections and content!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Christine McShane shares how you can stand out as a leader with your content and gives actionable steps to take right now to utilize AI to enrich the content you create.

Christine and I discuss:

The intersection between community and content.
The importance of authenticity and trust when creating content.
How people are craving that human connection.
The key first step: listening to what people want to connect about.
How to make people respond to your content.
Understanding some basic copyright issues with AI content.
Connecting your community in meaningful conversations.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Ep 162: How Successful Leaders Build Strong Communities with Simon Kardynal

Ep 157: The Impact of AI and How to Use it in Social Media Marketing with Andrea Jones

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What Being Productive Really Means for You

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Everyone wants to be productive. It’s important for us to achieve our goals, which is why I focus on it as a productivity strategist. But there is more to it than most resources and experts would have you believe. Join me for a conversation about productivity that will be much different and much deeper than others you’ve heard. This week, episode 170 of the Positively Living Podcast is about what being productive really means for you!

Productivity is not something you strive for on principle. You’re not trying to be productive for productivity’s sake, but for your sake…to support the life you want to live.

I cover the following topics:

The original concept of productivity and how it’s changed
How our productivity levels affect and are affected by how we live
My story of caregiving
The deeper purpose of productivity.
How being productive connects to resilience and thriving..

Productivity is not about doing more. It’s a means to live more.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Ep 61: Freedom From the Hustle

Ep 34: My Caregiving and Clutter Story

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Advantages of Visual Thinking with Brandy Agerbeck

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Visual thinking is the process of thinking through a topic or problem using visual processing. Though that sounds like it means drawing pictures, it goes far beyond that. It’s visualizing something in a limitless number of ways, which can help us solve problems in a way that isn’t typically taught or explored. This week, episode 169 of the Positively Living Podcast is about the advantages of visual thinking!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Brandy Agerbeck shares how visual thinking can help us solve problems in non-linear ways. We also explore how we can create a safe space to capture our feelings through visual thinking. The possibilities are endless, but Brandy gives some helpful guidelines to get us started.

Brandy and I discuss:

How using visual thinking can reduce overwhelm.
Who visual thinking is for and what it can be used for.
Why mind mapping might not work for you and what to do instead.
Using visual thinking to combat our inner critic.
Five types of visual thinkers.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Ep 116 - The Most Important Boundary for People Pleasers

Ep 8 - Toxic Positivity with Valerie Friedlander

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Boost Productivity and Well-being with a Toxic People Detox

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

There is one aspect of decluttering often overlooked that’s essential for our productivity and well-being. While we focus on physical clutter or managing our to-do list efficiently, which are very important, we don’t pay attention to how people in our lives may be impacting us. This week, episode 168 of the Positively Living Podcast is about boosting your productivity and well-being with a toxic people detox!

In this episode, I’m sharing how to recognize toxic influences and ways to remove them so you can make space for who and what lights you up.

I cover the following topics:

How to recognize toxic influences and ways to remove them.
The impact of toxic people in our lives and how it connects to codependency.
Warning signs for determining if someone is toxic for you.
Practical steps to start detoxing those toxic people from your life.

Remember, you are prioritizing your well-being. Removing toxic people from your life is an act of self-preservation, not selfishness.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Freedom to Quit When Something No Longer Serves You with Paula Lesso

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Quitting tends to be negatively associated with failure. It’s easy to think that we have failed somehow if we decide to quit. That’s not necessarily true, though. When done purposefully, quitting frees us up to have the time and space for the things that light us up. This week, episode 167 of the Positively Living Podcast is about deliberately quitting something (or someone) when it no longer serves us!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Paula Lesso and I are sharing about how to free yourself from things that are holding you back and how sometimes that might look like quitting. We also discuss how to look into your heart, head, and health to determine if it’s time for you to quit something.

Paula Lesso and I discuss:

Reframing the concept of quitting.
Ways we keep from quitting when it’s necessary.
Signs that tell us it’s time to let go.
Paula’s 3H perspective on taking steps toward quitting.
How quitting applies to projects and people.
Accepting the choice to quit once we’ve made that decision.

The key is neither to quit nor not quit. Instead, you need to understand what’s best for you and honor that in your actions. If you need to, feel free to think of quitting as a form of decluttering because, even though I didn’t mention it in our conversation, you know I was thinking it!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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The Productivity Hack Myth: Why They Don’t Work and What Does

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Have you ever tried a ‘productivity hack’ only to realize it didn’t work for you? Productivity hacks are often shared as a way to get more done in less time. But they don't actually work because they tend to assume that every single person is the same. As multi-passionates, we know for a fact that it’s true. What works for your friend may not work for you, and vice versa. This week, episode 166 of the Positively Living Podcast is about The Productivity Hack Myth: Why They Don’t Work and What Does!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I share the biggest issues with productivity hacks, the worst hacks on those lists (and how they do more harm than good), and a way to find what feels aligned with how you work best.

I also review what to do instead, which includes the following:

Focus on the big picture. Once you know what you want to achieve, you can start to break down your goals into smaller, more manageable tasks.
Set realistic expectations. Start by setting small goals that you know you can achieve.
Find what works for you. There is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to productivity.
Take care of yourself. When you have more energy and focus, it will help you be more productive.

Productivity done right may take time and effort initially but helps you in the long run. I encourage you to keep learning how you work best.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Ep 107: Five Ways to Make Productivity Work for You

Ep 115: Struggling to Prioritize When Everything Feels Urgent

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Sleaze-Free Selling for Creatives with Melanie Childers

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Given what we have been taught, ‘sales’ might feel like a sleazy word but at the end of the day, without sales, you have a hobby, not a business. As business owners, we have the opportunity to show up genuinely in service and give our potential clients or customers a choice, or more importantly, agency when they interact with us. This week, episode 165 of the Positively Living Podcast is about sleaze-free selling for creatives!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Melanie Childers shares how to approach sales from a heart-centered way, caring more about the customer's wants and needs than closing the deal and she offers actionable steps to take right now to approach your next sales call.

Melanie and I cover the following topics:

The real reason for getting on a sales call (and why it really has nothing to do with making an actual sale).
Questions to ask before, during, and after conversations with potential clients.
How to view and handle objections from potential clients.
The most powerful thing you can do on a sales call.

Not selling because you’re scared is a disservice to the people you can help. Not selling is not serving. It’s time to reframe your perspective on sales.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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PLP #43: The Softer Side of Sales with Renee Hribar

PLP #65: Ethical Copy that Converts with Mia Francis- Poulin

PLP #44: Ethical Marketing Rebellion with Dr. Michelle Mazur

Listen to Lisa's Episode on Melanie's Podcast: Redefining Productivity Without All the Pressure with Lisa Zawrotny

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[Strategy Call] Decluttering and Habit Management for Multi-Passionate Creatives with Katie Henson

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Multi-passionates often find themselves struggling to find time for everything they love and need and today’s guest is no different. Katie Henson has a lot on her plate and wants to find ways to manage her time better and establish a morning routine but we discover she has a lot of clutter getting in her way. This week, episode 164 of the Positively Living Podcast is a strategy call where I help Katie, a multi-passionate creative and entrepreneur, with decluttering and habit management.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m coaching Katie Henson on small ways she can adjust her day to reach her goals and giving her (and you) actionable steps to take when approaching clutter, bit by bit.

Katie and I cover the following topics:

Assessing personality type and tendencies to figure out ways to work best.
Transitioning the consistency in work life into home life using outer accountability.
How adjusting your environment will make the tasks you want to do easier.
Finding the most simple steps you can take TODAY to start making progress towards your goals.
Using timers to set limits and boundaries around the tasks that feel overwhelming.
Understanding the true cost of clutter and how the sunk cost fallacy traps us.

When we are reorganizing our space and making changes in our life, it is important to remember that we can’t always start where we want to end up, both physically and conceptually. Look around and figure out the easiest step you can take to just start moving the needle forward.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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The Big 5 Personality Traits: What They Mean for Your Productivity

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Free Big Five Personality Test (truity.com)

Your personality plays a significant role in determining your productivity levels and once you understand your personality traits, you can leverage that to work smarter and achieve more. This week, episode 163 of the Positively Living Podcast is about the big 5 personality traits and what they mean for your productivity!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I share the 5 major personality traits from the Big Five Model (aka the Five Factor or the OCEAN assessment) and show you how your ranking for each can impact how you work best. I share what it might look like if you rank high or low in each trait and the benefits for both.

The Big Five personality traits are:

Openness - How open a person is to new ideas and experiences.
Conscientiousness - How goal-directed, persistent, and organized a person is.
Extraversion - How much a person is energized by the outside world.
Agreeableness - How much a person puts others' interests and needs ahead of their own.
Neuroticism - How sensitive a person is to stress and negative emotional triggers.

Keep in mind, the Big 5 assessment isn’t about finding weaknesses or giving you a reason to judge yourself. Instead, it’s a way to understand how you work best so you can adapt your systems and environment to be more productive.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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How Successful Leaders Build Strong Communities with Simon Kardynal

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Trench Leadership Podcast

Communities are all around us, as are teams, but they aren’t always where or what we expect them to be. When you think about the groups you’re in and the way you interact and collaborate with others, you can see how you’re part of all sorts of communities. And when you’re the one bringing a community together, that makes you the leader. This week, episode 162 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how successful leaders build strong communities!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Simon Kardynal shares the qualities and perspective every good leader should have and gives you actionable steps to take right now to create a successful community.

Simon and I cover the following topics:

The benefits of strong communities.
How to become a leader who practices active listening.
The many benefits of creating a culture of community in whatever organization you lead.
The different kinds of communities and leaders and how they relate to teams.
Why celebrating and analyzing successes are just as important, if not more important, as analyzing failures.

Community building is like an umbrella. The community itself is the umbrella that protects everyone and everything underneath it. It’s the shell that allows the team to be able to go forward in a safe environment.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Why Your Neurodiversity is a Productivity Advantage

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Neurodiversity Is a Competitive Advantage (hbr.org)

Neurodiversity does not need curing but rather accommodating. And when accommodated, those who are wired differently can bring tremendous skills to the table. This week, episode 161 of the Positively Living Podcast is about why your neurodiversity is a productivity advantage.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I share statistics and specific skill sets that make neurodiverse minds especially productive and celebrate how neurodiversity is actually a competitive advantage, not a hindrance.

I cover the following topics:

What neurodiversity is and why we need to embrace it.
Neurodiverse traits that are inherently productive.
How we can make the most of our neurodiverse minds.
What a strategy session with me looks like and how you can use it to leverage your unique mind and become your most productive self.

It is my hope that the world will see neurodiversity for the opportunity that it presents. As we make this shift, finding a supportive community is essential so you can embrace your unique strengths, honor your authentic self, and unleash your full potential.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Seasonal Planning for Neurodiverse Entrepreneurs with Erik Fisher

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Seasonal planning is an incredibly efficient, though potentially underutilized approach to productivity. Using the seasons within our lives to choose what’s best for us not only helps us manage our energy, it gives us built-in permission to embrace variety and keep things interesting. This week, episode 160 of the Positively Living Podcast is about seasonal planning for neurodiverse entrepreneurs!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Erik Fisher shares his productivity wisdom on why seasonal planning works for us, especially those of us who are multi-passionate and neurodiverse, and gives you actionable steps to take right now to accept change as it comes and embrace this seasonal planning approach.

Erik and I cover the following topics:

What seasonality means and some of the different kinds of seasons we may go through in our lives.
The ways in which seasons can encourage us to embrace change.
Proactively planning for the seasons of your life as a form of energy management.
Simple ways to start seasonal planning through bucket lists and mentally decluttering.

There is never going to be a time where you’re not doing things so it’s about adapting a natural cycle to balance your seasons out and avoiding burnout in the long run.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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PLP Ep 33: Embracing Change with Nicole Mixdorf

PLP Ep 69: Tackle Your ToDo List in Four Simple Steps

PLP Ep 119: How Productivity is Impacted by Seasonal Energy

PLP Ep 140: How to Declutter Your Mind in One Simple Step

Brain.fm

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Why You Must Savor and Celebrate Your Success

Mon, 29 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Gratitude, something I talk often about on this podcast, is the concept of appreciating, which can look like celebration when you share it. Savoring that appreciation is the pause of being fully present in that moment to receive all of the good. This week, episode 159 of the Positively Living Podcast is about savoring and celebrating your successes!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the concepts of what it means and why we should savor and celebrate things and walking my own talk by savoring and celebrating some of my own podcast milestones.

I cover the following topics:

What savoring and celebration are.
How they connect to gratitude.
Ways in which savoring and celebration have come up in my life.
The 3 B’s that block us from practicing this more often.
4 ways to savor and celebrate more things in your life.

Savoring and celebrating are key to building resilience and being more present in your life. What you focus on, you fuel. Find the good and let it grow.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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PLP Ep. 132: 4 Ways You Are Already Practicing Gratitude

PLP Ep. 158: The Benefits of Therapeutic Journaling for Mental Health

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Benefits of Therapeutic Journaling for Mental Health

Mon, 22 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

PLP: Strategic Journaling for Business Growth with Lisa Latimer

Journaling is one of the simplest yet most potent growth tools out there. You control the cost and effort but as long as you remain consistent, the benefits will come regardless of the approach. This week, episode 158 of the Positively Living Podcast is about the benefits of therapeutic journaling for mental health!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m unpacking the non-aesthetic, but real and productive sides of journaling and I’m giving you actionable steps to take right now to find a way to journal that fits you best.

I cover the following topics:

What journaling is and some of the different ways you can approach it.
The incredible benefits of journaling for your mental health.
Steps you can take to approach therapeutic journaling.
5 Prompts to help you get started on your journaling journey.

With anything, if there is an approach or technique that you want to take advantage of but the “traditional” way seems far removed from how you work, I encourage you to look further and mold it into something that works for you.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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The Impact of AI and How to Use it in Social Media Marketing with Andrea Jones

Mon, 15 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Artificial Intelligence (AI) itself isn’t new; it’s built into the smart devices we use every day and helps us do things better and faster. With the rise of ChatGPT and similar chatbot platforms, it’s time to look at how it’s impacting our creation of and experience on social media. This week, episode 157 of the Positively Living Podcast is about the impact of AI and how to use it in social media marketing!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Andrea Jones shares how AI can be a useful tool to content creators (used with caution) and gives you actionable steps to take right now to maximize your use of this groundbreaking tool in an ethical way.

Andrea and I cover the following topics:

The sudden and overwhelming growth of AI features across all platforms.
Plagiarism, intellectual property, and legal concerns when it comes to using AI to create your content.
How you can use platforms like ChatGPT in a useful and ethical way.
Prompts and ideas you can use to fuel your content with ChatGPT.

While AI can be extremely helpful in guiding the direction and filling in the gaps of your content creation, it’s still going to be your personal stories at the forefront of what your audience values.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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The Savvy Social Podcast

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The Savvy Social Podcast: How ChatGPT Can Empower Marketers, Small Business Owners, and Brands

The Savvy Social Podcast: How ChatGPT is Changing Social Media Forever

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How to Reduce Mental Load as a Parent or Caregiver with Roxanne Ferber

Mon, 08 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

10 Simple Self-Care Ideas [Round Up]

The mental load is the behind-the-scenes work that is necessary to manage our lives and properly care for others. Often times we hear about this in the context of moms who are typically the “default parent” but mental load can affect us all. This week, episode 156 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how to reduce mental load as a parent or caregiver.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Roxanne Ferber—who has been a stay-at-home mom, work from home mom, and now a work outside of the home mom—shares how motherhood and bearing the mental load is never easy. She also gives actionable steps to take right now to find what works best for you to manage your demands and the stress that comes with it.

Roxanne and I cover the following topics:

Defining “mental load” and what we mean when referring to the “default parent.”
How the overwhelm of mental load can manifest itself physically in the body.
A number of ways you can reduce your mental load.
How communication is the biggest proponent in managing mental load (and delegating tasks).
Finding a community in which you can ask for help and support others who need it as well.

Mental load, when left untreated, can build up to overwhelm and burnout and manifest symptoms in your physical realm. Acknowledging it and asking for help is essential.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to http://www.positivelyproductive.com/podcastvault where the promo code PODCAST will give you a special listener discount.

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How to Declutter Your Mind in One Simple Step

3 Simple Systems to Organize Your Life + Business

[Strategy Call] Balancing Family and Business with Roxanne Ferber

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Music as Self-Care for Caregivers with Dawn Renee

Mon, 01 May 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Ep 50: Increase Focus and Reduce Stress Through Music with Tim Ringgold

A common challenge for caregivers is the tendency to put others first and continue to neglect their own self-care even after the official caregiving is done. This week, episode 155 of the Positively Living Podcast is about music as self-care for caregivers!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Dawn Renee shares her discoveries and perspective on being a caregiver and why self-care is not only crucial, it is a birthright. Dawn also shares how we can use music as not only a self-care practice but to heal.

Dawn and I cover the following topics:

Why an energy doula is so much more than what they are often referred to as a death doula.
How self-care and caregiving is really about tending to our energy.
The different levels of caregiving and how it all begins with ourselves.
The negative effects of not practicing self-care even in the most basic sense of the term.
First steps towards embracing sound therapy via music as a way to bring back our energy.

Just because you are caring for someone else does not mean you should stop caring for you. Self-care is not selfish.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Ep 81: Boost Caregiver Resilience Through Creativity with Kate Chapman

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How Reverse Decluttering Can Quickly Reduce Stress

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

The Impact of Stress and How to Manage it for Good | Positively Productive Systems LLC

You may know that you have too much in your life that you need to clear out and make space for what matters but sometimes it can be difficult to know where to start. You might not have the energy to work through a decluttering framework or even work with a coach but you know you want to do something to get started. This week, episode 154 of the Positively Living Podcast is about reverse decluttering!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing a simple technique you can use to help you take action toward your clutter, build momentum, and move past the stress.

I cover the following topics:

What clutter is and how it links to stress.
The one thing that you need to know to declutter properly (reverse or not).
What reverse decluttering is and why it works.
Examples of how I have used reverse decluttering in my life.
Practical steps on how you can use this technique to tackle your physical, digital, and mental clutter as well as ideas, information, and tasks.

No matter what area of your life you’re decluttering and how you choose to declutter it, it always comes back to asking yourself what belongs.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Coping with Grief by Giving Back with Lindsay Taylor

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Content Warning: Child Loss

I believe it is so important for us to normalize speaking about and embracing the many aspects of grief in our lives, which is why it is a recurring topic on this podcast. This week, episode 153 of the Positively Living Podcast is about coping with grief by giving back.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Lindsay Taylor shares her story of how her and her family were able to heal through giving back after the loss of her child as well as advice, support, and inspiration for those looking for an outlet for their grief.

Lindsay and I cover the following topics:

Lindsay’s story of losing her child unexpectedly.
The importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people through difficult times.
How Lindsay and her husband turned their tragedy into a way to give back and how that helped them cope with grief.
Choosing to live after tragedy, not just exist.
How giving back has changed for her over time.

Grief can show up in our lives in so many ways, not only the loss of a loved one but the loss of your hopes and dreams for the future. Allow yourself to grieve it all and consider how helping others can create an outlet for that grief.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Navigating Grief through Humor with Katie Rössler | Positively Productive Systems LLC

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How We Grow through Grief with Katie Rössler | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Letting Go of the Weight of Grief with Sherry Trentini | Positively Productive Systems LLC

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3 Areas of Your Life You Need to Spring Clean

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Organize a Space You Love with Crystal Nerpel | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Spring cleaning is so much more than clearing out our closets and changing our linens. It helps us prepare our space (and ourselves) as we shift into a new season of our lives. This week, episode 152 of the Positively Living Podcast is about the 3 areas of your life you need to spring clean!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing what clutter is, as defined by Peter Walsh, and giving you actionable steps to take right now to spring clean the things that are blocking you from the life you want to live.

I cover the following topics:

The most important question to ask when assessing your clutter.
Finding your purpose and using it as a filter to align all of your actions to who you are and what you’re meant to be doing.
Making sure your systems, processes, and routines are still supporting you in the right way.
Evaluating the people you surround yourself with, keeping those who support and make you feel good and “decluttering” the ones who don't.

Spring cleaning in a physical sense can have a profound impact on your health and wellness, but I encourage you to think about how this ritual can apply to every aspect of your life, outside and in.

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6 Reasons Why Decluttering Is a Form of Self-care | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Letting Go of the Weight of Grief with Sherry Trentini | Positively Productive Systems LLC

7 Ways We Sabotage Our Happiness and Productivity | Positively Productive Systems LLC

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Productivity Tips for Neurodiverse Brains with Jimmy Clare

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0400

We all work differently and need to choose how we approach our work to reflect that. No matter how your brain works, the best way to work it is to know it. This week, episode 151 of the Positively Living Podcast is about productivity tips for neurodiverse brains!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Jimmy Clare shares tips and ideas that he uses himself as an entrepreneur and student living with Autism. Jimmy’s perspective will inspire you to find new ways to get focused, whether you’re neurodiverse or not.

Jimmy and I cover the following topics:

How Jimmy took the Pomodoro technique and tweaked it to something that works for his length of focus.
The calendar method (similar to my flex blocking method) that allows Jimmy to schedule his week so that he can work in flow.
Leveraging automation, reminders, and templates to stay on track of completing your to-do list.
Finding the right tools and techniques through a series of trial and error.

Your #1 productivity tool is self-awareness because when you’re self-aware, you’re able to find the tools and techniques that work for you!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

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Crazy Fitness Guy Healthy Living Podcast

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PLP Ep. 1: The #1 Tool to Achieve Productivity

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How to Delegate Effectively as an Entrepreneur with Liz August

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Strategy, simply put, is a plan of action that properly connects to our objectives and directly links to how we reach our goals the right way. Without a strategy, we do not have the clarity to make intentional and effective choices on how and what to delegate. This week, episode 150 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how to delegate effectively as an entrepreneur!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest (& biz bestie) Liz August shares why it’s important to take the time to figure out what needs to happen and the best way to do it before handing it off to someone and she gives you simple and effective steps to begin strategizing on your own.

Liz and I cover the following topics:

Why entrepreneurs have a difficult time delegating their tasks.
What strategy looks like in admin and tech delegation.
Focusing your attention on the customer/client journey to benefit them as well as yourself.
A simple strategy for creating SOPs (standard operating procedures).

Strategy is not only critical for my work in holistic productivity but it’s essential for effective delegation so your team can do productive work, not just busy work.

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Get Your 3 Free Gifts!

Perfect Balance Financial Solutions

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Episode 18: Declutter Through Delegation with Liz August

Episode 100: 100 Episodes of Positively Living

Episode 110: Why You’re Struggling to Hire a VA with Liz August

Liz Wilcox

Zapier

Loom

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5 Reasons You're Struggling to Grow Your Business with Angela Henderson

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400

If you’re struggling to grow your business, you’re not alone. Growing a business can be challenging and there are many obstacles, including your mindset, that stand in your way. Today’s guest shares an interesting and insightful approach to keep you moving forward. This week, episode 149 of the Positively Living Podcast is about 5 reasons why you’re struggling to grow your business!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Angela Henderson brings a holistic and trauma-informed perspective to breaking through the things holding you back and gives you the framework needed to grow your business and yourself.

Angela and I cover the following topics:

The 5 reasons why you may be struggling to grow your business.
Some of the most common limiting beliefs high achievers experience.
The holistic practices that helped Angela get to the root of her blocks quickly.
3 actionable steps you can take to turn things around for yourself.

Whatever you’re not changing, you’re choosing. And remember, no choice is still a choice.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH ANGELA HENDERSON:

Business & Life Conversations with Angela Henderson Podcast

Women in Business Collaborative Facebook Group

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

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Why High Achievers Need a Coach

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Why Hire a Coach - Elevate Your Spark!

Too often we see successful people and assume being a high-achiever came naturally to them when, in reality, they have surrounded themselves with the support needed to help them get to that point. This week, episode 148 of the Positively Living Podcast is about why high-achievers need a coach!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m busting the myth about the type of person that would benefit from hiring a coach and sharing how coaching can be one of the best ways to effectively and efficiently reach your goals. I also share how my coaching differs from traditional productivity coaching and how my “you first” method helps clients finesse–not force–their way to a productive life, reaching goals while avoiding burnout.

One of the biggest reasons high achievers turn to coaches is because coaching can help you reach your goals much faster than you would on your own. Sometimes it’s a matter of getting unstuck and overcoming hurdles as well.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

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The Biggest Reason Multi-Passionate Creatives Struggle to Take Action

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Speaking Your Mind and Mission with Carol Cox

As constant learners and infinite creators, we have superpowers that are essential when harnessed but can also trap us, often unwittingly, when we let them control our actions or, more accurately, our inactions. This week, episode 147 of the Positively Living Podcast is about the biggest reason multi-passionate creatives struggle to take action!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I share what holds us back from taking action, including one of the biggest reasons that trips up multi-passionates, and I offer actionable steps you can use to get unstuck, take action, and continue moving toward the place you desire.

I cover the following topics:

Why multi-passionate creatives struggle to take action.
Six reasons why taking action is imperative.
Three simple steps you can use to begin taking action right now.

Your lifelong learning and need to research can be powerful, but can also be problematic. Without application, your knowledge can become a collection of information cluttering your mind and space instead of a means to move forward.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Am I Codependent with Mallory Jackson

Increase Productivity Based on Personality with Venese Lau

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10 Simple Self-Care Ideas [Round Up]

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Self-Care Episodes Playlist

As we’ve learned from past episodes, self-care ties into almost everything we talk about on the podcast including decluttering, stress management, mental health, and mindset practices. This week, episode 146 of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m featuring 10 episodes where we’ve tackled the topic of self-care from different angles.

The episodes I cover today include:

Ep #5: The WHOLE Self Lifestyle with Sarah Argenal where we discuss how surface-level tactics will not truly heal us so we need to define self-care through self-awareness.
Ep #10: Building Resilience Through Self-care with Gillian Behnke where we cover prioritizing self-care to show up as our best selves and recover faster.
Ep #16: Self-care as a Business Strategy with Stacie Walker where we encourage you to ask for help and find a community to support you.
Ep #90: 4 Ways Systems Can Support Self-care with Lavista Jones where we discuss resources to streamline your systems and open up time and space for self-care.
Ep #91: Self-discipline Is Self-Care with Amanda Chils where we talk about the “dirty” self-care, discipline, and boundaries.
Ep #93: 5 Steps to a Consistent Self-care Plan where I share a plan of action for implementing self-care in your life.
Ep #104: Easy and Effective Self-Care Practices with Daniela Wolfe where we cover an easy and effective way to include “little things” throughout our day that add up to the self-care that we need.
Ep #105: Setting Boundaries for Sustainable Self-care with Justine Sones where we discuss designing self-care in the right way for us.
Ep #118: 7 Ways We Sabotage Our Happiness and Productivity where I cover concepts I learned over my years of coaching that lead to understanding that self-care is mandatory.
Ep #144: Using the Five Love Languages to Practice Self-care with Miriam Wexler where we apply the five love languages to our self-care, not just our romantic relationships.

I include self-care as a topic on the podcast as inspiration for you to carve out the time to do the things that make a difference in your life, your energy, and in your spirit.

Check out the Positively Living Resources Vault & use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The Argenal Institute

Mom Camp Life

Unleash Your Ambition

Lavista Jones Website

Live My Happy Health

Best D Life

Justine Sones Website

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6 Reasons Why Decluttering Is a Form of Self-care

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500

How to Declutter Your Mind in One Simple Step (buzzsprout.com)

I advocate heavily for simplifying your life because when you release what doesn’t serve you, you settle into this new mindset that opens you up to new possibilities and shifts the way you see the world and interact with it. This shift can be so freeing. This week, episode 145 of the Positively Living Podcast is about the 6 reasons why decluttering is a form of self-care!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing why you don’t need as much as you think you do and certainly don’t need to do as much as you think you do and giving you actionable steps to take right now to declutter whatever is standing in between you and the life you want to live.

I cover the following topics:

Reviewing the different types of clutter that might be getting in your way.
6 reasons why I believe decluttering is self-care.
A bonus benefit for decluttering.
Tips for choosing where to start in your decluttering process and advice to help you move forward.

For any decluttering job, it is important to understand what does and doesn’t belong. You’re making space for what matters in your life.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Practice Self-care Using the Five Love Languages with Miriam Wexler

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Loving yourself and making time for self-care can be a challenge, but I truly believe that for any other relationship to work, we must love ourselves first. This week, episode 144 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how to practice self-care using the five love languages!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Miriam Wexler shares what the 5 love languages are and how understanding them impacts how we communicate with others and ourselves. She shares how we can flip those love languages from focusing on external relationships to our internal one, using them to guide our approach to self-care.

Miriam and I cover the following topics:

The factors that are blocking us from practicing self-care.
What the 5 love languages look like in a romantic relationship and how we can apply them to many other aspects of our lives (family, business), and specifically, how we can use them as a framework to practice self-love.
How this approach can work not just for self-care but as a complement to our relationships with others.

When we know our love languages and share them with others, we not only show them how we need to be loved, we then have the information to turn inward to filter our own self-care approach.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to http://www.positivelyproductive.com/podcastvault where the promo code PODCAST will give you a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH MIRIAM WEXLER:

Take the 5 Love Languages Quiz

Free Masterclass on February 23 at 12 PM EST called FEARLESS - how to navigate and work through our fears. Https://www.miriamwexler.me/fearless

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Ep. 29 Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Ep. 53 Am I Codependent with Mallory Jackson

Ep. 104 Easy and Effective Self-Care Practices with Daniela Wolfe

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Your Inner Voice and the Tale of the Two Wolves

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Toxic Positivity with Valerie Friedlander | Positively Productive Systems LLC

If you’ve heard the Tale of the Two Wolves before, you may have heard the ending “the wolf that wins is the one you feed,” but there’s an alternate ending that tells us why both wolves need to win and how to do it. This week, episode 143 of the Positively Living Podcast is about your inner voice and the Tale of the Two Wolves!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I read the Tale of the Two Wolves as a way to remind us that negative self-talk is something we all experience and I share an alternate ending to encourage you to approach your inner voice with compassion. When you give yourself the space you need to honor what’s inside you, you’re able to acknowledge, understand, and feed your inner self the right way. Self-compassion is critical for us to heal and change but it will only work when it’s paired with self-acceptance.

I believe that tending to both sides will truly enhance your life because when you realize two “wolves” are really one…really you…you’ll see the balance and harmony that comes from nurturing and appreciating both.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Harmful Mindset Approaches with Valerie Friedlander | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Emotions, Intuition, and Authenticity with Kristen Kubik | Positively Productive Systems LLC

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Choosing Your Creative Collaborative Platform with Emily Aborn and Alesia Galati

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500

One of the many benefits of collaboration is the connection you make with amazing people that often continues beyond the work that you do together. This week, episode 142 of the Positively Living Podcast is about choosing your creative collaborative platform!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guests Alesia Galati and Emily Aborn discuss how to decide which platform is best for you, how to do it the right way, and how to show up as the best collaborator on either side of the platform. We pack in tips, advice, and framework based on our personal experiences that you can use to find your own success.

Alesia, Emily, and I cover the following topics:

Our biggest podcasting lessons learned in 2022 and how we plan to apply these lessons in 2023.
Motivation and direction for those looking to put themselves out there and seek collaborations.
How to know if podcasting might be a good fit for you and what options you have in doing so.
Actionable steps to pitch yourself like a pro if you want to be a guest.

How you show up online is unique to you and your audience. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, experiment with new things, and stick to what works for YOU.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH ALESIA GALATI:

Listeners to Leads Podcast

CONNECT WITH EMILY ABORN:

She Built This Podcast

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Ep 134: 3 Ways to Repurpose Your Podcast Content with Alesia Galati

Ep 135: Using Collaboration to Boost Visibility with Emily Aborn

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How to Know If You're a Multi-passionate Creative

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500

You’ve heard me talk often on the podcast about multi-passionates and for those of us who identify as one, it’s important we keep discussing this as it leads to self-acceptance and self-awareness and, in turn, positively impacts our lives. This week, episode 141 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how to know if you’re a multi-passionate creative!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m shedding light on the ways multi-passionates operate, including where they excel and where they are challenged, as well as debunking some of the false perceptions that are commonly attributed to them.

I also cover the following topics:

Common names you might hear when referring to a multi-passionate person.
Questions to ask yourself to find out if you’re multi-passionate.
Some of the challenges that we as multi-passionates often face.
How multi-passionates need different support and where to get it.

The life of a multi-passionate is, fittingly, multi-challenging. Not only is the world making demands of you, but your own brain and heart are as well. This means you have to work extra hard to embrace all that you are and find the right tools and support to maximize your potential.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Ep 74: Living a Multi-Passionate Life with Lauren Yee

Ep. 122: Benefits of Being a Jack of All Trades with Mike Montague

Ep. 123: Serial Entrepreneur Superpowers with Nicole Schmied

Emilie Wapnik’s TED Talk: Why Some of us Don’t Have One True Calling

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How to Declutter Your Mind in One Simple Step

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Tackle Your ToDo List in Four Simple Steps

Decluttering the mind is as important, if not more so, than cleaning out a closet because our mental and physical spaces affect and reflect each other. This week, episode 140 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how to declutter your mind in one simple step!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing how physical clutter and mental clutter differ, yet directly link together and I give you the actionable steps to take right now to declutter your mind so you can declutter your life!

I cover the following topics:

Why we need to declutter our minds.
The ways that mental clutter can disguise itself as something useful, productive, or required.
How mental clutter isn’t inherently bad but causes problems due to volume.
My one simple step to decluttering your mind.
A bonus recommendation for decluttering your mind (physical decluttering).
Additional steps you can take depending on your sub-type of mental clutter.

Decluttering is removing from a current space what doesn’t fit, belong, or serve you. In order to declutter your mind properly, you need to identify the life you want to live, find what gets in the way of that, and figure out how to remove it.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Declutter your Life with the SIMPLE System

How Simplicity Sparks Joy with Tim Lucier

Organize a Space You Love with Crystal Nerpel

3 Simple Systems to Organize Your Life + Business

The Power of Being Present

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Why Being Present is So Powerful

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500

In a world filled with endless distractions, being present is something that is talked about plenty and yet, misunderstood even more. This week, episode 139 of the Positively Living Podcast is about the power of being present!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing why it’s important to practice being present in our daily lives and leaving you with 6 simple steps that you can take right now to start practicing being present.

I cover the following topics:

What it means and how it feels to be truly present.
What being present does for us from a practical, productivity standpoint.
Bonus benefits of being present.
Things we can shift in our everyday routines that help us practice being present.
A practice you have heard about from me for years that’s directly linked to being present.

The things keeping us from being present often relate to energy, time management and mindset, so the more you nurture those areas, the easier it will be to be present.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Episode 4 The Power of Gratitude

Episode 132 4 Ways You Are Already Practicing Gratitude

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Why You Need a Word of the Year

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 00:00:00 -0500

Setting goals and addressing habits are key to achieving what you want, but how do we choose the right tasks, projects, and opportunities each day to keep us moving closer to those goals? One of the easiest and most effective ways to help with that is to have a guiding word for every choice you make. This week, episode 138 of the Positively Living Podcast is about why you need a word of the year!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing how having a word of the year can act as a filter to help you decide what to take action on while keeping in alignment with your values and goals and I give you actionable steps to take right now to choose a word that suits you and your year ahead.

I cover the following topics:

How a word of the year can be a valuable tool to filter your decisions and keep you focused on one thing at a time.
Questions to ask yourself when choosing a word to guide your year.
Examples of my past words of the year to help get you started choosing your own.
The reasons and results of the last few years and my word of the year for 2023 and why I chose it for this time in my life.

Like everything else, this practice is to be done in a way that works for you. It’s meant to be a guide for a season in your life to keep you grounded and on track, but where you go is always your choice.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

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How to Create a Vision Board That Works

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0500

Especially around this time of year, I’m sure you see plenty of references to vision boards and can assume what they are and what goes into them, but like any other habit or technique, one size does not fit all. This week, episode 137 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how to create a vision board that works for you!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing how vision boards can visually support what you want to be, do, or have in your life and how you can use them as a tool to help your brain quickly accept and maintain focus on these goals.

I cover the following topics:

The science behind why visualization works as opposed to just making a list of your goals.
Questions to ask when identifying what your “vision” is.
The many types and styles of vision boards and how to choose the type that’s right for you.
How to use your vision board in a way that actually helps you achieve your goals.

What you focus on, you fuel, and a vision board is an effective way to help you focus on what you want to achieve. Be sure to tailor this practice so that you can make it something you enjoy doing and something you’ll look forward to seeing every day.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with valuable worksheets, checklists, recordings including a vision board training. Go to http://www.positivelyproductive.com/podcastvault where the promo code PODCAST will give you a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

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Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Why Reflecting Works Better than Making Resolutions

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 82: The Planning Mindset You Need to Create Your Best Year with Angela Henderson

Around this time of year, a lot of people begin setting New Year’s resolutions. If you are happy doing so, go for it. But if you’re like me, frustrated with their limitations and ineffectiveness, this episode is for you. Join me in exploring a better way to enact change. This week, episode 136 of the Positively Living Podcast is about practicing reflection instead of resolutions!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I share why I don’t do new year’s resolutions and give you actionable steps to take right now to assess where you are and where you’re going so that you can set the foundation for your goals and the habits that will support them.

I cover the following topics:

Why resolutions aren’t preferred and how reflection is superior.
The extensive list of benefits you can receive from practicing reflection on a regular basis.
My guidelines for how to best practice reflection.
My short set of open-ended questions that you can use in your reflection practice.

Reflection may feel overwhelming at first as a lot of feelings, emotions, and revelations may come up but it is important to process them so you can go into a new stage of your life feeling refreshed and ready for what’s next.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Ep 133: How Overplanning Actually Hinders You From Doing More

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Using Collaboration to Boost Visibility with Emily Aborn

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0500

The power of collaboration can be summed up in the quote “the whole is greater than the sum of the parts” because when you partner with others, you often end up with something better than you imagined. This week, episode 135 of the Positively Living Podcast is about using collaboration to boost visibility!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Emily Aborn shares what collaboration can do for you in terms of visibility and gives you actionable steps to take right now to collaborate in a way that is both successful and satisfying.

Emily and I cover the following topics:

The ways you may be collaborating without even realizing it.
How collaboration has a direct impact on boosting your visibility in a way that benefits everyone involved.
Knowing your own strengths and weaknesses so that you can be confident in what you bring to the table and be aware of where you need to fill the gaps.
5 tips to achieve a successful collaboration.
Ideas on where to find and how to foster potential collaborations.

At the end of the day, it all comes back to staying in alignment with your mission and vision and one of the ways to do that is being intentional about the places you’re choosing to be visible.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH EMILY ABORN:

She Built This Facebook Group

She Built This Podcast

Tips to Avoid Burnout Based on Enneagram Type with Sarah Lynn | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Check Out Her Marketing Momentum Lab

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Stress-Free Content Creation with Emily Aborn | Positively Productive Systems LL

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3 Ways to Repurpose Podcast Content with Alesia Galati

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 00:00:00 -0500

If you’ve listened to the podcast before, you know that I repeat myself a lot and there’s good reason for that. When we are trying to get a message out into the world, we need to say it more than once in order for it to be seen or heard, let alone for it to be absorbed and create impact. The challenge is that as creators, specifically podcasters, we need to find ways to do that without burning ourselves out in the process. This week, episode 134 of the Positively Living Podcast is about 3 ways to repurpose podcast content!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Alesia Galati shares her expert insights on why repurposing your content is imperative and how you can maximize all of the work you’ve put into your podcast.

Alesia and I cover the following topics:

2 ways you can repurpose your podcast content into more episodes (by going deeper instead of wider with your content).
Repurposing your podcast content into more general content across other platforms and podcasts as well as some ideas to get you started.
Using your podcast content as supplemental content (one of the simplest ways to repurpose).
How to tie in marketing and SEO to repurposing.
Alesia’s hot take on the age-old feud in the podcasting world about putting your podcast on YouTube.

Don’t reinvent the wheel. Instead, find simple ways to work smarter and get creative with what you’ve already done.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH ALESIA GALATI:

Listeners to Leads Podcast

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Positively Living: Podcasting and Pivoting with Alesia Galati

Positively Living: Repurpose Your Content to Increase Productivity and Income with Yong Pratt

Positively Living: Tackle Your Todo List in Four Simple Steps

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How Overplanning Actually Hinders You From Doing More

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0500

How Productivity is Impacted by Seasonal Energy | Positively Productive Systems LLC

As a productivity coach and self-proclaimed planner, it might sound odd for me to suggest that you plan less, but if you have been overwhelmed, especially around the end of the year with everyone planning for the year ahead, I have a refreshing and encouraging approach to help you plan less and still reach your goals. This week, episode 133 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how overplanning actually hinders you from doing more!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing that although strategic planning, reflection, and creating a roadmap is crucial when it comes to reaching your goals, too much detail may hinder you.

I cover the following topics:

How I worked with one of my clients to create a framework that doesn’t create restrictions while keeping her aligned and working towards her end goal.
What overplanning does to hinder your efforts.
3 things to keep you on track if you start to get tempted to plan in more detail.
Specific ways you can adjust your approach to planning.

As you plan, I encourage you to enjoy the process, embrace the unknown, and trust that planning less will give you a better outcome.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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4 Ways You Are Already Practicing Gratitude

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0500

I see the frustration from so many people when it comes to the idea of practicing gratitude. They feel like it’s one more thing to add to their to-do list. But what if I told you that you’re already doing it and it’s a matter of discovering your practice instead of adding it? This week, in episode 132 of the Positively Living Podcast, I'm sharing four ways you are already practicing gratitude!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing why a gratitude practice matters and how easy it is to grow one with what you’re already doing.

The 4A framework I created that will help you explore gratitude when you’re beginning (or starting again).
The 4 ways you're already practicing gratitude (and may not realize it!)
How you can lean into what you’re doing to make your practice stronger and continue to grow in gratitude.

So many of us believe that a gratitude practice has to look a certain way, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. I hope you’re encouraged to see how simple it is, how it can be whatever you make it, and how you’re likely already practicing it.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to http://www.positivelyproductive.com/podcastvault where the promo code PODCAST will give you a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Manage Stress through Rest and Play with Gary Ware

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0500

When your schedule is jam packed, it can be difficult to carve out time for self-care and rest, but it’s those very things that seem optional that we need the most. This week, episode 131 of the Positively Living Podcast is about managing stress through rest and play!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Gary Ware shares the science and stories that support why you need to welcome rest and play into your life and he gives you actionable steps to incorporate rest and play so you can actually increase your creativity, confidence, and productivity.

Gary and I cover the following topics:

Why we sometimes avoid play even though it is so critical in our lives.
The ways in which play connects to rest and how we can incorporate different types of rest and play to manage the stress we have and promote the productivity we want.
The three different types of rest (it’s not just one!) and how they all play a part in our overall well-being.
Establishing a power down ritual to increase your quality of sleep even if you can’t increase your quantity of sleep.
Using the powerful “when/ then” statement that will help even the rebels trigger a response to take a break.

Rest and play are personal and need to be customized. It’s about what brings you joy, rejuvenates you, and makes you feel your best.

CONNECT WITH GARY WARE:

Conquer Your Inner Critic Through Play with Jeff Harry

Playful Rebellion

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Benefits of Being a Jack of All Trades with Mike Montague

Living a Multi-Passionate Life with Lauren Yee

Prioritizing Sleep for Health and Productivity with Mollie McGlocklin

Biohacking Brain Fog for Productivity with Tanessa Shears

Microsoft Study: Research Proves Your Brain Needs Breaks

What Got You Here Won’t Get You There (Marshall Goldsmith)

Play (Stuart Brown)

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Simple Ways to Make Food Work for You with Wendy Hill

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0500

Fab Female Nutrition Podcast

Has your relationship with food been like mine? Varying degrees of complicated? There is a constant contradictory noise around food and nutrition making it difficult to know what to do, what to eat, what’s ok and who to believe. This week, episode 130 of the Positively Living Podcast is about simple ways to make food work for you!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Wendy Hill brings her perspective as both an experienced nutritionist and a total foodie on how we can heal our relationship with food by understanding what it does to us and for us. She also gives you actionable steps to take right now to make small changes, starting with your next plate and healthier food choices that you can enjoy.

Wendy and I cover the following topics:

Reframing how we think about food, particularly what we view as a “treat” for ourselves.
Taking time to slow down and enjoy the food we’re eating to promote better digestion and absorption of nutrients.
The four components of a balanced plate.
Simple changes we can make to our meals to get the most benefit from the foods we eat.
The difference between processed foods and convenience foods.

It’s not just the food we eat that matters but the way we eat and our lifestyle surrounding it. You’d be surprised at the simple changes you can make that will have a huge impact on your overall nutrition.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to http://www.positivelyproductive.com/podcastvault where the promo code PODCAST will give you a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH WENDY HILL:

Hill Start

Episode 115 - Being Positive, With Lisa Zawrotny - Hill Start Nutrition

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Ditch the Diet and Eat Intuitively with Megan Hadley | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Give Yourself More with Georgie Fear | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Fit and Fun Family Habits with Dr. Orlena Kerek | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

The Gift of Being Underestimated with Diane Diaz

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Being underestimated happens to us all. It can feel insulting and mess with our confidence, but it can also be beneficial when we use it to our advantage. This week, episode 129 of the Positively Living Podcast is about the gift of being underestimated!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Diane Diaz shares what it means when others underestimate you and how you can reframe your perception of it and use the space it gives you to create and grow.

Diane and I cover the following topics:

Sharing our personal and professional experiences and perspectives on being underestimated.
How you can use your response to their assumptions to fuel your efforts.
Reframing underestimation to see it as an advantage.
The importance of finding your voice and using that to share your message with the world.

It takes time and consistency but we need to keep taking action so that we can continue to grow, no matter the perceptions people have about us.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH DIANE DIAZ:

Speaker Archetype Quiz

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Speaking Your Brand: Building Your Thought Leadership Platform with Lisa Zawrotny

Positively Living Podcast: Speaking Your Mind and Mission with Carol Cox

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How Our Current Brand Culture Leads to Burnout with Rachael Kay Albers

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0400

In previous episodes, we’ve discussed marketing and branding authentically and ethically with the perspective of giving our clients agency to make the best choices for themselves. Today we’re spinning that around to look at how marketing affects our lives as entrepreneurs and as society as a whole. This week, episode 128 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how our current brand culture leads to burnout!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Rachael Kay Albers shares her perspective on what marketing is doing to us in a world that is influenced and shaped by it and she gives you the permission to treat your personal brand like a personal brand, and not compare yourself to companies of larger scale.

Rachael and I cover the following topics:

The blending of content creation and traditional journalism.
How brand culture developed and how this concept of brand has evolved over time.
How our attempts to apply company level marketing principles to our own brands is leading us straight to burnout.
Building systems and processes that allow you to serve more people while remaining in a limited container that is sustainable for your capacity.

Scaling everything is not necessarily the solution. If you don’t feel successful because you haven’t found a way to serve a million people at once, I encourage you to take a look at that mindset. Step back, reflect, and find your version of success.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH RACHAEL KAY ALBERS:

Marketing Muckraking Podcast

Awkward Marketing Podcast

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

How Your Personal and Business Brands Connect with Karley Cunningham

Ethical Copy That Converts with Mia Francis-Poulin

Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Schlabach

Ethical Marketing Rebellion with Dr. Michelle Mazur

Giphy

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Accessible and Inclusive Marketing with Meg Brunson

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0400

JUST Marketing Equitable Marketing Checklist

The way we communicate in business can either isolate or include. Unfortunately, much of what has been shared has divided and harmed historically marginalized groups but when we become aware and know better, we can do better! This week, episode 127 of the Positively Living Podcast is about accessible and inclusive marketing!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Meg Brunson helps us become aware of where we might be blocking certain groups of individuals from accessing our content and gives actionable steps you can take right now to make your business world a more accessible, inclusive and welcoming space.

Meg and I cover the following topics:

What it means to be accessible and inclusive and how they connect with one another.
3 simple steps we can take to be more accessible in the online space.
How your use of emojis can actually be problematic for your posts.
Creating content for your current AND future audiences.

Accessibility leads to profitability because not only are you appealing to the audience you currently have, you are appealing to the audience you will have in the future and opening a door to a wider audience through accessibility.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/podcastvault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH MEG BRUNSON:

JUST Marketing

Cut Through The Clutter and Chaos With Lisa Zawrotny ⋆ Meg Brunson

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Alt Text: A Necessary Step in Your Just Marketing Strategy

A Guide to Emojis and Assistive Technology

The Role of Captions and Transcriptions in Just Marketing

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Permission to Follow Your Own Path with Stephanie Haynes

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0400

As a questioner, I truly believe we need to keep asking questions to ensure our traditions don’t trap us in principle and hold us back from a path better suited for us. This week, episode 126 of the Positively Living Podcast is about permission to follow your own path!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Stephanie Haynes shares the importance of questioning the reason behind the expectations set on us (by society, family, and self) and she gives you actionable steps to take right now to take the risk and create your own path to follow.

Stephanie and I cover the following topics:

Stephanie’s perspective on the “all roads lead to college” push in the 90’s and its impact on us to this day.
Sobering data on how the college push has not worked and what we can do differently for our children and ourselves by reverse engineering our pathways.
The different questions we need to ask to find and follow the right path for us and what we can ask and observe in our children to help them do the same.
Simple questions to start your reflective journey.

Don’t let fear, stories, and tradition keep you from asking what would make you happy. You have the permission to ask what is possible for you.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH STEPHANIE HAYNES:

Organizing for Students with Tiffany Blassingame | Positively Productive Systems LLC

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Moving Beyond Mom Guilt with Rachel Bailey | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

[Strategy Call] Follow Up to School Style Time Blocking with Lauren Yee

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 00:00:00 -0400

In last week’s strategy call, I worked with Lauren Yee to time block in a way that was sustainable for her and encouraged her to track and document her experiment to hone in on the best strategy to be her most productive self. This week, episode 125 of the Positively Living Podcast is a strategy call update where we follow up on school style time blocking!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Lauren Yee shares how through this experiment, she was able to make space to explore her interests, finally complete the things she used to put off and is now helping others follow in her footsteps.

Lauren and I cover the following topics:

Recapping last week’s discussion and action items.
Which school structure Lauren picked to follow and the “classes” she created to fill her schedule.
How creating a course schedule for herself gave her the “permission” she needed to check off the small tasks that made a big difference.
The way Lauren tracked her progress, reflected on her experiment and used her audience to keep her accountable.
Lauren’s highlight, lowlight, and major realizations.
3 Recommendations to take what she’s doing that is working and modify it to make it better.

If something isn’t working for you, you don’t always have to start completely over. Sometimes it is just a matter of pivoting and adjusting where needed.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LAUREN YEE:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Positively Living Podcast: Living a Multi-Passionate Life with Lauren Yee

Positively Living Podcast: Using School Themes to Time Block with Lauren Yee

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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[Strategy Call] Using School Themes to Time Block with Lauren Yee

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 00:00:00 -0400

As a questioner, my client Lauren Yee needs to make time blocking work for her in a way that makes sense while incorporating her fun and vibrant personality and we found a way to do just that in this strategy session. This week, episode 124 of the Positively Living Podcast is about using school themes to time block!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I coach Lauren on taking this concept of time blocking and structuring it in a way that not only works for her but locking it in so that it feels real to her allowing her to stick to it.

Lauren and I cover the following topics:

Why having a digital time blocking calendar didn’t work for Lauren.
Intentional time blocking to move out of that reaction state and better negotiate and plan for your availability.
Building in buffer time and boundaries within your schedule.
Creating task loops to ensure all parts of the task get completed every time.
Using frameworks that already exist (like school) and shifting them to work for you at any stage in life.
Sharing the takeaways Lauren can implement right away to time block like a pro.

When you create structure to account for everything on your task list, you can plan your schedule intentionally while giving yourself the flexibility to adjust when needed.

Be sure to stay tuned for the next episode where Lauren tells us what she tried, how it worked, and whether or not she’s heading on to the next grade.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LAUREN YEE:

Increase Productivity Based on Personality with Venese Lau | Positively Productive Systems LLC

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Positively Living Podcast: Living a Multi-Passionate Life with Lauren Yee

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Serial Entrepreneur Superpowers with Nicole Schmied

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 00:00:00 -0400

I’m a multi-passionate entrepreneur who loves being one and loves coaching them, but I will admit it can be a double-edged sword. You have #alltheideas and all the drive to do them, but you feel like there isn’t enough time in the day to do what you want to do and that can be a struggle. This week, episode 123 of the Positively Living Podcast is about serial entrepreneur superpowers!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Nicole Schmied encourages you to embrace your multi-passionate life and she gives you actionable steps to take right now to hone your superpower and take the best, most effective action.

Nicole and I cover the following topics:

The biggest superpower you have as a multi-passionate entrepreneur that you may not have realized you had.
The challenges that serial entrepreneurs tend to face most.
What taking massive action looks like and what it takes to hone this superpower.
Bonus marketing tips (get ready to take notes!)
How we can overcome being misunderstood as serial entrepreneurs.

Being a serial entrepreneur means one of two things: you might find yourself frustrated with starting things you don't finish OR trying to be a wizard with time management. The thing no one tells you is your superpower is taking action, massive action!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH NICOLE SCHMIED:

Smart Cookie Media

The Entrepreneur’s Tool Kit Facebook Group

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Building a Brand Story by Donald Miller

3 Times 3 Ways Method

Positively Living: 3 Simple Systems to Organize Your Life + Business

Positively Living: How to Organize Notes and Ideas [Ask Lisa]

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Benefits of Being a Jack of All Trades with Mike Montague

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 00:00:00 -0400

The original saying, “jack of all trades” was deemed a compliment for a person with good broad knowledge and the ability to master the integration of disciplines. I love this description because it’s so positive and how I support my clients, but it hasn’t always been seen that way. This week, episode 122 of the Positively Living Podcast is about the benefits of being a jack of all trades!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Mike Montague debunks the negative stigma around the phrase, “jack of all trades” and the often continued, “master of none” and gives you actionable steps to take right now to understand the benefits of the multi-passionate life and how you can use your vast experience as a path to success.

Mike and I cover the following topics:

Our personal experiences in exploring different careers and hobbies and what it has done for us personally and professionally.
Why we as a society hesitate to explore our interests.
How Mike stepped back from burnout and moved forward with play in his life.
How getting fired by Billy Idol affected Mike’s confidence (and the surprising key to building confidence).
Mike’s 5 CCs of FUN that show us the benefits of being multi-passionate.
2 Simple steps for how to embrace the benefits of a multi-passionate life.

Those who identify as multi-passionates, multipotentialites, polymaths, scanners–the ones who have broad knowledge and a desire to broaden it even more–have far greater potential for success than they may realize!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH MIKE MONTAGUE:

Playful Humans Podcast

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Douglas Adams - Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency

Dance Song Playlist V1, V2, V3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

How Your Personal and Business Brands Connect with Karley Cunningham

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Building a Profitable Purpose-Driven Brand with Ashlee Sang

If you’re anything like my clients and me, you’ve thought about your brand before, but have you thought about how your personal brand and your business brand connect to one another? This week, episode 121 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how your personal and business brands connect!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Karley Cunningham shares the benefits and pitfalls of feeling like your business is an extension of yourself as a solopreneur and she provides actionable steps you can take right now to get clear on where connection and separation need to be for your most successful and aligned business.

Karley and I cover the following topics:

Defining “brand'' and what we as fellow multi-passionate entrepreneurs need to know about it.
The distinction between product and people brands.
What goes into personal and business branding and who needs to oversee it (this one will surprise you because she says it’s actually NOT marketing).
What it means to have a company persona.
How our clarity on purpose and values is paramount.

Clarity drives the confidence you need to make the right decisions and take action. And when you take action, it creates traction, which drives results, and leads to success.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH KARLEY CUNNINGHAM:

Big Bold Brand

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on the Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The Widest Net (Pamela Slim)

The EMyth Revisited (Michael Gerber)

The Big Leap (Gay Hendricks)

Start With Why (Simon Sinek)

Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Jackson

Three Signs Your Biz Needs Rebranding with Maria Platusic

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

How to Organize Notes and Ideas [Ask Lisa]

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400

I’m a questioner by nature, which is ideal for coaching, but I also love answering questions too. In today’s episode, I am answering a listener's question asking for suggestions for those who constantly write down notes and have trouble accessing that information later. This week, episode 120 of the Positively Living Podcast is about organizing notes and ideas for an effective information management system.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of finding a way that works for YOU to store your collected information and actionable steps you can take right now to capture that information, process it properly, and store it in a way to easily access later.

The steps I cover to organize notes and ideas:

Finding a process or platform that works for you to collect and store information.
Doing a mind sweep or brain dump to reduce the clutter floating around in your head.
Creating a “to choose” list and organizing your information by the ways in which you will use it.
Making it a habit to set aside some extra time to process the information after collecting it.

You want to keep your process simple, being sure to consider what works now and what would be easiest for you going forward. Remember, your system won’t work if you don’t create a habit to go with it.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Positively Living: 3 Simple Systems to Organize Your Life + Business

Positively Living: Tackle Your ToDo List in Four Simple Steps

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

How Productivity is Impacted by Seasonal Energy

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400

There’s a graphic I have been using on social media for years that says “live fully in the season you’re in” and it makes me think of how important it is to embrace where we are in our lives and who we are as people. This week, episode 119 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how productivity is impacted by seasonal energy!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of using self-awareness as your #1 productivity tool and actionable steps you can take right now to pay attention to the signs that tell you it’s time to change your approach and let go of the things that no longer fit in the season you’re in.

I cover the following topics:

Embracing the concept of seasonality around us and in everything we do as the first step in energy management.
Seasons of life to consider- some obvious and some you may have never thought of before.
The ways in which I honor my seasonal energy and plan accordingly.

I urge you to set aside the shame and society’s expectations (or more likely, your own expectations) and seek out true productivity: doing the right thing, at the right time, in the right way for YOU.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Resource Vault (use promo code PODCAST for a very special listener discount)

Free Resource Library

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 1: The #1 Tool to Acheive Productivity

Episode 29: Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Episode 103: Biohacking Brain Fog for Productivity with Tanessa Shears

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Start your own podcast with Buzzsprout!

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

7 Ways We Sabotage Our Happiness and Productivity

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400

7 Habits I Avoid to Become Highly Productive | by Anthony J. Yeung | Mind Cafe | Medium

Since I founded Positively Productive Systems in 2016, I’ve seen my fair share of physical clutter and loved every minute of helping clients clear it and start fresh. But what I've been most fascinated with is helping clients declutter their minds and hearts because inside is where it all starts. This week, episode 118 of the Positively Living Podcast is about 7 ways we sabotage our happiness and productivity!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of noticing the link between our physical space and how it is affected by what is going on inside our minds and I provide actionable steps you can take right now to get to the root of the matter, your mindset. Shifting your mindset is critical for long lasting change.

The 7 ways we sabotage our happiness and productivity are:

Saying “should” all of the time.
Comparing ourselves to others.
Assuming what people think.
Repeating the same negative stories.
Believing that self-care is optional.
Spending time with negative people.
Seeing failure as a bad thing.

What you focus on, you fuel. Where you direct your attention matters and you end up with more of whatever has it. What has your attention?

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 114: Harmful Mindset Approaches with Valerie Friedlander

Episode 113: The Helpful and Harmful Sides of Comparison

My Story

Stop Saying Should Part 1: Mental Decluttering and Mindset Shift | Positively Productive Systems LLC

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Say No Without Feeling Guilty or Rude

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Tackle Your ToDo List in Four Simple Steps | Positively Productive Systems LLC

There are so many well-intentioned people sharing the mantra, ‘no is a complete sentence’ and while that is technically true and reminds you that you do not need to justify saying no, it doesn’t take into consideration the heart of the matter…YOUR heart in the matter. This week, episode 117 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how to say no without feeling guilty or rude!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of saying no to some things so that you are able to say yes to others and I provide actionable steps you can take right now to say no in a way that feels good to you and is effective.

I cover the following topics:

Why we have such a difficult time saying no.
What saying no actually means and why you may want to do it more often.
How to say no firmly and respectfully.
My simple formula for firm, but gracious replies.

Saying NO is an important part of protecting boundaries, but it’s not just about saying NO. It’s figuring out when and how to say it.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

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The Most Important Boundary for People Pleasers

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Issues with boundaries happen often when it comes to self-care. While we’ve mentioned boundaries in many different conversations, this week we give this topic the spotlight it deserves in episode 116 of the Positively Living Podcast, which is about the most important boundary for people pleasers!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of getting clear on your boundaries and I give you actionable steps you can take right now to set those internal boundaries and prioritize you!

I cover the following topics:

The difference between internal and external boundaries.
Why boundaries matter and the benefits of setting them.
3 Tips to set internal boundaries.
The key places where internal boundaries work may trip you up.

Your values, your beliefs, your needs—they matter. YOU matter. And boundaries are the way to show that.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 53: Am I Codependent with Mallory Jackson

Episode 105: Setting Boundaries for Sustainable Self-Care with Justine Sones

Bonus Episode: Your Mental Health is More Important than Productivity

Episode 31: Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Schlabach

Head to Positively Productive Favorites Page for book links:
Codependent No More (Melody Beattie)

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Struggling to Prioritize When Everything Feels Urgent

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Have you ever felt like everything in your life is urgent? Do you feel like the majority of your energy goes to putting out fires everywhere? Does life feel more reactive than proactive? That’s one of the most common reasons my clients come to work with me and if you feel this way, know that you are not alone. This week, episode 115 of the Positively Living Podcast is about struggling to prioritize when everything feels urgent!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of owning how you decide to prioritize your to-do list and providing actionable steps you can take right now to prioritize confidently.

I cover the following topics:

The top three issues I see that keep clients from prioritizing
Two reasons why you might leave the prioritizing to someone else
Prioritization techniques to consider, including one of my favorites
How to own your choices, no matter the outcome

When we don't make a choice, the choice will be made for us. No matter the outcome, be sure to choose on your own terms.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

For more links and resources, view the blog post.
Head to Positively Productive Favorites Page for book links.

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Harmful Mindset Approaches with Valerie Friedlander

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Spiritual Bypassing And How ‘Wellness’ Excuses Racism | ELLE Australia article

Too often we take ideas offered at face value, especially when it comes from influencers sharing their version of wisdom and success, but it’s important for you to question if these common approaches are truly helpful or actually harmful. This week, episode 114 of the Positively Living Podcast is about harmful mindset approaches!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Valerie Friedlander shares the importance of taking a pause so that you can increase awareness, set conscious habits and start to identify and avoid harmful mindfulness trends.

Valerie and I cover the following topics:

What mindset is and what it is not.
When your mindset practice doesn’t apply to the obstacles and struggles in someone’s life.
The 3 well-intentioned but decidedly harmful mindset approaches people often use and how to spot, avoid, and do something different instead.
The ONE thing you need to handle all three (the best first step for you to take).

Mindset work is a powerful and necessary approach to change, but like every tool we use in our life and business, we need to be sure we’re using the right one the right way.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet still achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session: a heart-opening, mind-expanding, goal-setting session that gives you the clarity needed to determine your best steps forward. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH VALERIE FRIEDLANDER:

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Stop Telling Women They Have Imposter Syndrome | Harvard Business Review article

Toxic Positivity with Valerie Friedlander

(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Stolen Focus by Johann Hari

How We Show Up by Mia Birdsong

Loaded by Sarah Newcomb

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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The Helpful and Harmful Sides of Comparison

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Stop Saying Should Checklist

The topic of comparison is one that is seen and discussed everywhere–we’ve discussed it on the podcast in a variety of conversations–but we haven’t discussed it directly and it’s time. I see too many clients and friends suffering because of it and allowing it in where it doesn’t belong. This week, episode 113 of the Positively Living Podcast is about the helpful and harmful sides of comparison!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of understanding both sides of comparison and actionable steps you can take right now when comparison is no longer helpful or inspiring.

I cover the following topics:

What is comparison and how we use it to make decisions in our daily lives.
The number one pitfall of comparison and how you can avoid it.
How person-to-person comparison gives us inaccurate data that drags us down.
Steps can you take now to maximize the helpful side of comparison and minimize the harmful.

When it comes to sharing ideas and choosing what works best for you, comparing can be really useful as long as you compare accurately and appropriately. But more often than not, comparison leads to dissatisfaction.

As a multi-passionate creative, you are meant to design and share your gifts with the world. Please don’t let comparison not only rob you of your joy but rob the world of your gifts too.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Free Resources Library

Bonus Episode: Your Mental Health is More Important than Productivity

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

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[Strategy Call] Managing Stress and Making the Most of Moving with Reena Friedman Watts

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Better Call Daddy Podcast

A big move is stressful, but it is also an ideal time to let go of what’s not serving you and welcome new opportunities into your life. This week, episode 112 of the Positively Living Podcast is a coaching session with Reena Friedman Watts who is making the most of moving!

In this episode, I coach Reena through the effects of stress and how to manage it. I also share actionable steps you can take right now to declutter your life and make space for what matters.

We cover the following:

How to figure out the best ways to process and manage your stress.
How your perspective shifts when limits are placed on you.
Understanding your priorities and reclaiming space for them.
Differentiating between wants and needs and to ensure your needs are met.
Trusting your gut when it comes to making tough decisions.

Everything you learn about managing stress during a pivotal time in your life can be taken with you and applied to other circumstances.

Thank you for listening!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH REENA FRIEDMAN WATTS:

MegaWatts Productions

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 33 Embracing Change with Nicole Mixdorf

Episode 51 [Strategy Call] Balancing Family and Business with Roxanne Ferber

Episode 79 How Your Body Responds to Stress with Christa Bevan

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

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How to Create an Effective and Fun Client Journey with Devin Lee

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Elevated Customer Journey Workbook

The most effective marketing comes from putting yourself in your potential client’s shoes and speaking directly to their needs, but once they express interest in becoming a client, what happens then? How do you deliver the products and services they need while maximizing their overall experience? This week, episode 111 of The Positively Living Podcast is about how to create an effective and fun client journey!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Devin Lee shares the importance of leaving a lasting impression on your client through the client journey and offers actionable steps you can take right now to simplify and streamline your client journey to benefit everyone involved.

Devin and I cover the following topics:

Why having a streamlined client journey is so important.
The ways in which perfecting your client journey benefits both the client as well as yourself.
How sharing the right information at the right time affects client perception and patience.
Using automation as the game changer to reclaim your time, energy, and money.
The 3 steps you need to take to help you design the most effective client journey (and you may already be doing them!)

The best client journey is one that leaves them feeling even better than when they first arrived.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH DEVIN LEE:

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Find links to books on Positively Productive Favorites Page:
Essentialism by Greg McKeown

Episode 95: Streamlining Your Workflow with Melissa Morris

Hyperbole and a Half

Dubsado

Acuity Scheduling

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

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Why You're Struggling to Hire a VA with Liz August

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 00:00:00 -0400

When you know it’s time to outsource, it can be challenging to seek the help you need to really grow your business. This week, episode 110 of the Positively Living Podcast is about why you’re struggling to hire a virtual assistant!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Liz August shares the importance of leveraging the skills of a VA to free up your time and money that can otherwise be spent on revenue-generating tasks and the things you truly enjoy. We also discuss some actionable steps you can take right now to successfully implement the help of a VA.

Liz and I cover the following topics:

What a VA is, does, and why you might consider bringing one into your business.
The objections and mindset blocks Liz sees most often that keep entrepreneurs from seeking support.
The number 1 thing you need to do to ensure you receive the efficiency you desire from your VA.
A simple and easy first step that is necessary for you to do before you outsource your work.

No matter where you are in this process, it’s essential to declutter and simplify first so you identify what’s blocking you and get the systems in place to support outsourcing your tasks.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LIZ AUGUST:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Positively Living Episode 18: Declutter Through Delegation with Liz August

Positively Living Episode 69: Tackle Your ToDo List in Four Simple Steps

Positively Living Episode 100: 100 Episodes of Positively Living (with Guest Host Liz August)

Find links to books on Positively Productive Favorites Page:
The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Strategic Journaling for Business Growth with Lisa Latimer

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Growing within your business truly comes down to your mindset. You need to get curious and get clear on what you’re doing and WHY you’re doing it and journaling creates the safe and sacred space to answer these questions for yourself. This week, episode 109 of the Positively Living Podcast is about strategic journaling for business growth!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Lisa Latimer shares the importance of increasing your self-awareness so you can stop unintentional self-sabotage and she offers actionable steps you can take right now to use journaling strategically to move the needle in your business.

Lisa and I cover the following topics:

How journaling helped Lisa through her toxic relationships and weight loss journey and eventually lead her to landing clients in her business.
The ways in which self-sabotage might discretely show up in your life.
How journaling works, why it works, and why you might be struggling with it.
THE single most effective journal prompt you can start with today.

Journaling is not a one-size-fits-all practice. It is something that is truly personal and should be tailored to what fits you best.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA LATIMER:

Facebook Group- She’s So Boss Mindset

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Trello

Find links to gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page:

Lisa Z’s favorite journal

Lisa Z’s favorite pen

Rocketbook

Pilot pens for Rocketbook

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Mindfulness Practices to Help You Focus with Lindsay Coward

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 00:00:00 -0400

You may have heard the word “mindfulness” in the context of meditation but it is truly a tool all its own that can help you declutter the mind, allowing you the time and calm you need to focus and be fully present. This week, episode 108 of the Positively Living Podcast is about mindfulness practices to help you focus!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Lindsay Coward shares the importance of using mindfulness as a daily practice to be more present and aware in our lives and she offers actionable steps you can take right now to shift your energy using the tools you always have with you.

Lindsay and I cover the following topics:

The many benefits that come from implementing mindfulness into your daily life.
Simple steps we can start today to begin practicing mindfulness.
A funny yet relieving breathwork exercise you can do to shift your energy. (Lisa and Lindsay demonstrate!)
The power of being intentional in your practices.

Mindfulness, practicing breathwork, and setting intentions are all tools you can incorporate into your daily life to create and enjoy newfound space in your life.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LINDSAY COWARD:

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Download the FAMCAL App on Android or Apple

Positively Living Podcast: Breathwork to Reduce Stress and Anxiety with Sarah Novak

Positively Living Podcast: How Your Body Responds to Stress with Christa Bevan

Positively Living Podcast: How to Harness the Power of Habits

Dane Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

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Five Ways to Make Procrastination Work for You

Mon, 30 May 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Procrastination has become a villain in the productivity world because, in the extreme, it can get you in loads of trouble. But in moderation, it may actually work to your benefit. This week, episode 107 of the Positively Living Podcast is about how you can make procrastination work for you!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing what procrastination means for you and actionable steps you can take right now to make procrastination work in your favor.

I cover the following topics:

What procrastination is and who does it.
The 7 reasons we might be procrastinating.
5 ways you can actually make procrastination work for you.
The first step in avoiding procrastination (identifying why)
How I procrastinated with this episode!

Procrastination is universal, we all do it, but it is important to realize this isn’t a flaw, there is nothing wrong with you. You can leverage it as a tool to work for you, not against you.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Choose What Energizes You Through Mindfulness with Sarah Steckler

Mon, 23 May 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Energy management is the unsung hero when we’re searching for better “time management” because when we have the same amount of time, we need to pay attention to what we do in that time and our energy is directly linked to that. This week, episode 106 of the Positively Living Podcast is about choosing what energizes you through mindfulness.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Sarah Steckler shares the power our thoughts have and she provides actionable steps you can take right now to integrate this idea of intentional, energy driven productivity that leaves you feeling both grounded and connected to yourself.

Sarah and I cover the following topics:

An intentional productivity practice that keeps your energy, capacity, and intentions in mind that fills the gaps where the ideas drawn from corporate hustle were lacking.
How being present in the moment directly influences your life.
Paying attention to what drives, drains, and produces your energy.
Letting go of guilt by getting curious.
Journaling to do a daily structured brain dump so you can intentionally capture your ideas and hold space for your thoughts.
1 question and 1 action that will help us identify our energy management needs and find the clarity necessary to focus and be truly productive.

It is important to remember that our mindset constantly needs tending and that by being present and noticing our energy, we can begin to restructure our life to work in this ebb and flow and avoid burnout.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH SARAH STECKLER:

Mindful Productivity Podcast

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Work with Lisa!

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

(Find links to books/gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page)

Atomic Habits by James Clear

PLP: How to Trust Your Gut to Make the Right Choice with Gwen Austin

PLP: Your Mental Health is More Important than Productivity

PLP: Accessing Creativity through Mindfulness with Izolda Trakhtenberg

PLP: Play to Your Strengths with Julia de'Caneva

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

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Setting Boundaries for Sustainable Self-Care with Justine Sones

Mon, 16 May 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Our self-care can gradually decline and lead us to burnout before we even realize it. Thankfully, by understanding how the nature of self-care, our feelings, and the stress cycle are all connected, we can put boundaries in place to protect ourselves from reaching that point again. This week, episode 105 of the Positively Living Podcast is about setting boundaries for sustainable self-care!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Justine Sones shares the importance of pinpointing what self-care means to you and provides actionable steps you can take right now to develop healthy boundaries and practice sustainable self-care.

Justine and I cover the following topics:

Why it’s so easy to let our self-care decline right before our eyes and not even realize it.
The implications of pouring from an empty cup.
How to understand what you need, which you need before setting boundaries.
Steps to tap into your self-care and create the boundaries that will sustain it.
A powerful jumping off point to set your boundaries into practice.

Taking the steps to process what you need and create the boundaries to protect that will set you up to be able to love yourself through your life.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH JUSTINE SONES:

The Friday Feels

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Ep 91: Self-Dicipline is Self-Care with Amanda Chils

Ep 99: Emotions, Intuition, and Authenticity with Kristen Kubik

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Easy and Effective Self-Care Practices with Daniela Wolfe

Mon, 09 May 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Self-care has become an overused buzzword that people relate to these big things like spa days or bubble baths, but what it comes down to is the little things you do consistently throughout your day to recharge and reenergize yourself. This week, episode 104 of the Positively Living Podcast is about easy and effective self-care practices!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest, Daniela Wolfe shares the importance of practicing self-care as a long-term and gradual practice to make yourself feel good over time and she shares actionable steps you can take right now to simplify your self-care to feel good and prevent burnout.

Daniela and I cover the following topics:

What self-care is and, just as importantly, what it is NOT.
Why we resist it or take it for granted when we do practice it.
3 easy and effective steps we can take to implement self-care practices into our daily routines.
How to use habit stacking to combine self-care and productivity (Lisa’s favorites!)
Using boundaries to give yourself freedom.

Self-care is not optional, it’s essential, and it’s the tiny steps that make the biggest difference without us even realizing it.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH DANIELA WOLFE:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Head to Positively Productive Favorites Page for book links:

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg PhD

Joyful by Ingrid Fetell Lee

Positively Living Podcast: Am I Codependent with Mallory Jackson

Positively Living Podcast: Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Biohacking Brain Fog for Productivity with Tanessa Shears

Mon, 02 May 2022 00:00:00 -0400

I’ll be honest, if you Google biohacking you might get a little scared but what it really comes down to is adjusting your internal environment so that you can have more longevity, better brain function, and feel better overall. This week, episode 103 of the Positively Living Podcast is about biohacking brain fog for productivity!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Tanessa Shears shares the importance of getting to the root problems of your brain fog and provides actionable steps you can take right now to leverage biohacking to better balance your health and business.

Tanessa and I cover the following topics:

How brain fog shows up and why it is so normal in the entrepreneur community, but doesn’t have to be!
Isolating the 3 root causes of your brain fog: sleep, nutrition, and stress.
Understanding the difference between sleep opportunity vs. sleep time and the difference between deep sleep vs. REM sleep (and why you need to know them)
Answering the age-old question, can we “catch up” on sleep?
Understanding how food affects your body so that you can make informed decisions when it comes to what you are putting on your plate and when you’re eating it.
Finding the balance between your sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system by creating space for nothingness.

Biohacking is a great way to better understand how our bodies work so that we can adjust our sleep, make intentional choices when it comes to our nutrition, and manage our stress for optimum brain performance.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH TANESSA SHEARS:

Becoming Limitless Podcast

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE
(Find links to books/gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page)

Digital Minimalism by Cal Newport

Positively Living Podcast: Prioritizing Sleep for Health and Productivity with Mollie McGlocklin

Positively Living Podcast: How Your Body Responds to Stress with Christa Bevan

Brain.fm

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What You Need to Know About the 5 Human Design Energy Types with Carolina Wikstrom

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Human Design is how our own unique energy moves within us and a guide for how we use that energy to interact with the world around us. This week, episode 102 of the Positively Living Podcast is about Human Design!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Carolina Wikstrom shares the importance of setting aside our preconceived notions and staying open in our quest for self-awareness. She also shares actionable steps you can take right now to understand your Human Design so you can live in alignment with your unique energy type.

Carolina and I cover the following topics:

How Carolina found Human Design (or how it found her) after coming from a scientific and technical background.
Where the Human Design system came from and what it involves.
The 5 energy types and how each one plays its own role in contributing to society as a whole.
The one energy type most aligned with multi-passionate creatives.
The next steps you can take to understand your own Human Design and the fastest way to get into alignment with your true and authentic self.

Human Design is another way to increase your self-awareness so that you can play to your strengths and bring your unique gifts and talents to the table for everyone’s benefit.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH CAROLINA WIKSTROM:

Book a Human Design Reading

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

To Be Magnetic Instagram

Song: Isla para Dos

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

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Being Versus Doing with Manpreet Bawa

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Without doing the inner self-work that is required for genuine happiness, the external causes of happiness will not matter and will not last. This week, episode 101 of the Positively Living Podcast is about being vs. doing!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Manpreet Bawa shares the importance of questioning everything in order to change your outlook on life and the actionable steps you can take right now to find harmony between being and doing.

Manpreet and I cover the following topics:

Doing the self-work that will lead you to genuine happiness.
Distinguishing between being and doing.
Giving yourself space to acknowledge your emotions and connect with yourself so you can respond with intention.
Letting your mind help you without taking control over you.
The one question to ask yourself in order to find the harmony between being and doing.

Strive to be intentional and purposeful in your life and to move forward seeking meaning in all that you do and you’ll be more satisfied, less stressed, and more focused on what you want to be and do.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH MANPREET BAWA:

It’s On Podcast

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Neuroscientist Joe Dispenza

Positively Living: Freedom from the Hustle

Positively Living: How Your Body Responds to Stress with Christa Bevan

Positively Living: Emotions, Intuition, and Authenticity with Kristen Kubik

Positively Living: Assessing Creativity through Mindfulness with Izolda Trakhenberg

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Your Mental Health is More Important than Productivity

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 00:00:00 -0400

There is nothing more important than your mental health; not your projects, your career, your relationships, nothing. This week, on a special bonus episode of the Positively Living Podcast we’re talking about your mental health being more important than your productivity!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Alesia Galati and I share the trends we are seeing with clients being urged towards burnout, despite accepting the “freedom from the hustle” mindset, and reminding you that your wellbeing always comes first.

Alesia and I cover the following topics:

The trends we are seeing that are leading to burnout, the reasons behind these trends, and how to protect yourself from them.
That initial energetic exchange you have with someone, either as a coach or a client, that’s going to set the precedent for the type of relationship you have with that person.
Avoiding the comparison trap by figuring out and sticking to what works for you.
Understanding that rest is just as productive as anything else and your value is not determined by the amount you do.
That self-care is more than taking a spa day; it is setting boundaries and maintaining a lifestyle that keeps burnout at bay.

I want you to dream big, to create, and love what you do, but in the end, you HAVE to prioritize yourself and that means acknowledging what you need and protecting it.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH ALESIA GALATI:
Instagram
LinkedIn
Work with Galati Media!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:
Facebook
Instagram
Resources
Work with Lisa!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Episode 32: Podcasting and Pivoting with Alesia Galati
Episode 7: The Impact of Stress and How to Manage it for Good
Episode 13: Stress Relief through Self-acceptance with Jane Tornatore
Episode 29: Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson
Episode 61: Freedom from the Hustle
Episode 68: Mental Health for Men with Tim Beisiegal
Episode 94: Tips to Avoid Burnout Based on Enneagram Type with Sarah Lynn

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3
Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny
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100 Episodes of Positively Living

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Website
Facebook
Instagram
Linkedin

I can hardly believe it, we’ve officially made it to 100 episodes of the podcast! Throughout the past 100 episodes, I’ve had the opportunity to interview some truly amazing and remarkable guests. In this episode, we’ve switched it up with a special guest interviewer–my biz bestie–who’s interviewing me! Join us for Episode 100 of the Positively Living Podcast as we celebrate 100 episodes of Positively Living!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Liz August and I share how I am working to redefine what productivity means, celebrating the past 100 episodes, and looking ahead to the next 100 and beyond.

The questions Liz asks in this episode include:

What exactly does a productivity coach do?
What is my favorite thing about working with clients through the lens of self-care and breaking the “one size fits all” mold at the forefront?
What was I hoping to achieve when first starting my podcast?
How far does the podcast reach and what can listeners expect going forward?
What are my future plans for my coaching business and Positively Productive Systems?
Rapid wrap-up Questions [the same ones I ask every guest!]

Thank you for listening and celebrating with me! I am grateful for you. Remember, true productivity is doing the right thing at the right time the right way for you.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH MY BIZ BESTIE, LIZ AUGUST:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Facebook
Instagram
Resources
Work with Lisa!

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find links to books/gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Start With Why by Simon Sinek
The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson

Voxer

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Emotions, Intuition, and Authenticity with Kristen Kubik

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Being aware of our emotions is important, but how we process our emotions is what is going to take us to a new level of healthy emotional regulation and bring us closer to true authenticity. That’s why episode 99 of the Positively Living Podcast is about emotions, intuition, and authenticity!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Kristen Kubik shares the importance of creating space for yourself to process emotions in a society that doesn’t always support that and she provides actionable steps you can take right now to learn to work with and regulate your emotions.

Kristen and I cover the following topics:

The 3 basic functions of emotions and the purpose they serve.
3 steps that lead you from your initial feeling to taking action based on it.
The difference between root and secondary emotions and where emotions like fear and grief fall into the mix.
How the expectations of society hinder the normal and natural expression of our emotions.
Kristen’s practice for processing your emotions in a safe place at a safe time.
Differentiating between detachment and dissociation.

When we are able to process our emotions and tap into our intuition, we trust ourselves and are able to show up authentically.

Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH KRISTEN KUBIK:

TikTok

Start Connecting With Your Intuition Guide

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Canva

USPS Informed Delivery

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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The 3 Numbers You Need to Know for Your Business to Thrive with Danielle Hayden

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Are you afraid to face your business finances? Do you often say you “aren’t a numbers person”? It’s time to let go of that assumption and gain some simple numbers knowledge. That’s why episode 98 of the Positively Living Podcast is about the 3 numbers you need to know for your business to thrive!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast my guest Danielle Hayden shares how you can shift your money mindset and expand your financial literacy to break free of the fear and shame we hold around money.

Danielle and I cover the following topics:

Where our money story comes from and how it shows up in our lives.
How money mindset can block us from a critical component of our business and how we can move beyond that.
Why we need to know our numbers (hint: it's far more than making money.)
The importance of having a separate bookkeeper and CPA.
What a cash dashboard includes and how you can create and use your own to track your finances.
The 3 most important reports to pull and understand on a regular basis.
Modeling supportive entrepreneurship practices for your kids.

You are not alone when it comes to financial literacy concerns, but once you take that step to improve your knowledge in your numbers, you can use these numbers to help your business thrive.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH DANIELLE HAYDEN:
Website
Podcast: Entrepreneur Money Stories
Facebook
Instagram @kickstartaccounting
Twitter
Instagram- @daniellehayden_oh

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:
Facebook
Instagram
Resources
Work with Lisa!

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find links to books/gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Built to Sell by John Warrillow
The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks
Ep 97: Trello for Business Productivity with Taylor Mobley
Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3
Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Trello for Business Productivity with Taylor Mobley

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0400

While it’s not realistic to have one platform that does it all, many of them can make a big difference if used in a way that aligns with your needs and how you work best. That’s why episode 97 of the Positively Living Podcast is about Trello for business productivity!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Taylor Mobley shares the importance of understanding your process in order to find a platform that works for you and provides actionable steps you can take right now to use Trello as a potential project management tool. Taylor and I cover the following topics:

Who Trello is best suited for including types of entrepreneurs and clients.
Collaborative features that make this a great platform for both teams and clients.
Using Trello to organize content for podcasts, blogs, social media, etc.
Automation features you might overlook at first glance.
How Taylor organizes her Trello for optimal productivity (and a biz hub idea you won’t want to miss).
The importance of backing up your data, regardless of the platform you use.
The number 1 place to start in Trello to win your week.

Organizing and automating processes helps you focus on the part of your business that is your zone of genius. Trello is one of the many resources that you can use to approach your time proactively and productively to help you win your week!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet still achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session: a heart-opening, mind-expanding, goal-setting session that gives you the clarity needed to determine your best steps forward. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH TAYLOR MOBLEY:

Taylor Mobley Co.
IG: Taylor Mobley Coaching
Blonde & Ambitious
IG: Blonde & Ambitious Blo

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Facebook
Instagram
Resources
Work with Lisa!
Buy Lisa a coffee!

(Find links to books/gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3
Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Comparing Mailerlite and MailChimp with Monica Pitts

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0400

MailChimp vs. MailerLite Blog Post

When it comes to email marketing platforms, there are so many to choose from and finding the right one for you can be challenging. That’s why episode 96 of the Positively Living Podcast is comparing Mailerlite and MailChimp!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Monica Pitts shares the importance of using email marketing to both reach your audience and streamline automation within your business and she provides actionable steps you can take right now to figure out which email marketing platform is right for you.

Monica and I cover the following topics:

Why we need email marketing and how the right platform can make all the difference.
The fear we hold around sending multiple emails to your audience and why it’s not as big of a deal as you think.
The importance of having information in all of the places where it is easy and natural for your audience to find it.
Breaking down how Mailerlite and MailChimp compare to one another (and sharing our favorites)

When you approach email marketing, remember that it's not just about the messaging and design, but about integration and accessibility too.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH MONICA PITTS:

Mayecreate.com

Marketing with Purpose Podcast:

For Nonprofits

For Construction

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Save Time and Money by Streamlining Your Workflow with Melissa Morris

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0500

Whether you’ve just started your business and feel overwhelmed or you’re growing to a point where you need support in order to keep up, having a streamlined and efficient workflow can make all the difference. That’s why episode 95 of the Positively Living Podcast is about saving time and money by streamlining your workflow!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Melissa Morris shares the importance of automating systems in your business to support both you and your client and she provides actionable steps you can take right now to streamline your workflows.

Melissa and I cover the following topics:

Using the D.I.S.C.O. framework to understand your workflows and pinpoint where to start streamlining them.
The number one area in your business to start implementing automation.
Debunking the idea that automation stands in the way of a nurturing relationship between you and your client.
The importance of intentionally using your VA to leverage your workflows, not create them every time.
How to use your new process to create boundaries around what to expect, what is included in your work, and more importantly, what is NOT included.

As a successful entrepreneur, when you implement these techniques, you’ll open up space to work on your business, not just in your business.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH MELISSA MORRIS:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Toggl- Time Tracking

Dubsado

Episode 18 Declutter through Delegation with Liz August

Episode 45 Free Up Your Biz through Funnels with Megan Bingham

Episode 70 Is Click Up Right for Me with Layla Pomper

Episode 86 3 Simple Systems to Organize Your Life + Business

Episode 90 4 Ways Systems Can Support Self-care with La’Vista Jones

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Tips to Avoid Burnout Based on Enneagram Type with Sarah Lynn

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0500

FREE Find Your Type Workbook

Knowing your Enneagram type can be a great way to understand yourself better, navigate stress, and ultimately avoid burnout in the process. That’s why episode 94 of the Positively Living Podcast is about tips to avoid burnout based on your Enneagram type!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Sarah Lynn shares the benefits of understanding your enneagram type and actionable steps you can take right now to make your life easier by creating strategies that align with your personality type.

Sarah and I cover the following topics:

How the enneagram differs from other personality tests.
The components that make up an archetype.
A high-level overview of each of the 9 enneagram types and their driving motivators in life.
The ways in which each type’s fears and motivators will lead them to burnout.
Understanding your type to determine when you’re falling into burnout versus experiencing growth.

There is so much to learn and study about yourself through your enneagram type. Enjoy the process and embrace who you are!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH SARAH LYNN:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find links to books/gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Atlas of the Heart by Brene Brown

Episode 29 Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Episode 56 Conquer Your Inner Critic through Play with Jeff Harry

Episode 75 Speaking Your Mind and Your Mission with Carol Cox

Episode 88 Playing to Your Strengths with Julia De’Caneva

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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5 Steps to a Consistent Self-Care Plan

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 5- The Whole SELF Lifestyle with Sarah Argenal

Too often I see my clients treat self-care as optional when it is so necessary. When you consistently skip your own care you may realize too late that you have nothing left to give. That’s why episode 93 of the Positively Living Podcast is about 5 steps to a consistent self-care plan!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of using self-care to recharge, nourish, and energize yourself while also protecting your limits and I give you 5 simple, actionable steps that you can take right now to integrate self-care into your everyday routine.

I cover the following topics:

The 3 things you need to remember when it comes to self-care.
Some of my favorite self-care quotes that really encompass what self-care is about.
What self-care means to you so you know exactly what to add to your routine.
Choosing your favorite self-care ideas that will make the most impact (and how the 80/20 principle plays a part).
Identifying the smallest, simplest ways you can implement these as quick wins in your everyday life.
Scheduling self-care ahead of time to avoid excuses, create momentum, and make this a habit.
Sharing your joy with others so they can support you!
Bonus tips on being present, creating successful habits, and lots of examples of how I do choose and schedule self-care.

Self-care means being on your own side. Are you ready to give yourself the same support you give others? It’s time to create your own personalized self-care plan.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Ep 7- The Impact of Stress and How to Manage it for Good

Ep 10- Building Resilience Through Self-Care with Gillian Behnke

Ep 16- Self-Care as a Business Strategy with Stacie Walker

Ep 90- 4 Ways Systems Can Support Self-Care with La’Vista Jones

Ep 91- Self-Discipline is Self-Care with Amanda Chils

Ep 92- 5 Ways to Take Back Your Self Worth with Jomana Elaridi

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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5 Ways to Take Back Your Self Worth with Jomana Elaridi

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0500

In a society that reminds us to be humble, doesn’t take kindly to people being confident, and is quick to identify flaws, our self-worth is too easily lost and it can feel like a struggle to get that back. That’s why episode 92 of The Positively Living Podcast is covering 5 ways to take back your self-worth!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Jomana Elaridi shares the importance of letting go of this false sense of self that comes with perfectionism and people-pleasing and she provides actionable steps you can take right now to truly embrace your self-worth.

Jomana and I cover the following topics:

The life experiences that cause our sense of worth to diminish after being born as this valuable, worthy, and pure human being.
Our need for outside approval from others leads us down this toxic path of perfectionism and people-pleasing.
How your lack of self-worth shows up in your actions and the ways in which you treat yourself.
Releasing the weight that others’ opinions and the thoughts around what you “should” do are being held over you.
5 practices you can implement into your life to take back your self-worth.

It is time to understand that you are worthy, just as you are. Now it’s time to give yourself the chance to make sure your actions match that understanding.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH JOMANA ELARIDI:

Positively Living Podcast: Am I Codependent with Mallory Jackson

Tedx Talk

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Positively Living Podcast: Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Self-Discipline is Self-Care with Amanda Chils

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 00:00:00 -0500

Self-discipline is not only a skill you can acquire, it is a skill that is necessary to open yourself up to self-care. That’s why episode 91 of The Positively Living Podcast is about how self-discipline IS self-care!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Amanda Chils shares the importance of understanding how self-discipline, self-respect, and self-care are all connected and she shares actionable steps you can take right now to master self-discipline to take your life back into your own hands

Amanda and I cover the following topics:

What self-discipline is and how we can develop it through everyday practice.
The difference between fluffy and dirty self-care and why it is essential to do the dirty self-care.
Reversing the concept that being selfish is a negative trait when it is one of the most important and necessary traits for your happiness.
Reevaluating how we allow people to treat us and using this newfound self-discipline to manage our relationships with others.
Productivity as a discipline of its own that you can work on to find freedom in your life.

When you practice what you need to be happy and peaceful, you will get there. Trust the process.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH AMANDA CHILIS:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find links to books/gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

I Will Teach You To Be Rich (Ramit Sethi)
Positively Living Podcast Episode 53: Am I Codependent with Mallory Jackson

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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4 Ways Systems Can Support Self-Care with La'Vista Jones

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0500

As a former caregiver myself, I know what it’s like to lose yourself to burnout and wonder how you can come back from that and where you could possibly fit in any self-care. That’s why episode 90 of the Positively Living Podcast is about 4 ways systems can support self-care!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest La'Vista Jones shares the importance of recognizing that self-care is not an option, but a must, and she provides actionable steps you can take right now to use systems to build a life that nurtures you.

La’Vista and I cover the following topics:

Where burnout manifests itself in your everyday life.
How the concept of boss shame keeps people from asking for help and delegating tasks.
Using automation and other resources around you to streamline your systems to open up the time and space for self-care.
Holding the space in your daily schedule to take care of basic necessities and prioritize yourself first.
Building your love language into your operating systems so your business is set up to nurture you on a routine basis.
Incorporating joy into your life in every and any way that you can.

We have said it before but it is important to say time and time again, being busy doesn't mean you’re productive. Be intentional about what you do, especially for you.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LA’VISTA JONES:

Ep. 18: Declutter through Delegation with Liz August

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find links to books/gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Referral of a Lifetime Tim Templeton

Ep. 16: Self Care as a Business Strategy

Ep. 63: Freedom from the Hustle

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Organize Your Business in Airtable with Melissa Guller

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0500

Episode 70: Is ClickUp Right for Me with Layla Pomper

There is no such thing as one perfect tool that works for everyone but this is a great thing because no matter how you learn and operate, there is a tool out there fit for you! Airtable could be that tool for you. That’s why episode 89 of The Positively Living Podcast is about how to organize your business in Airtable!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Melissa Guller shares the importance of understanding what it is you’re trying to accomplish in order to find a system that works for you and she provides actionable steps you can take right now to use Airtable to organize the data systems in your business.

Melissa and I cover the following topics:

How Airtable may be a natural step up for Excel users as it acts as a more advanced version of your typical spreadsheets.
How the features allow you to easily collect, view, and share information.
The different view settings that let you see the information in a way that resonates with how you work.
Why you may be using multiple project management systems in conjunction with one another to tackle your task management and data collection.
The accessibility for both viewers and collaborators.
Why Airtable may appeal to creatives, including the option to make your data aesthetically pleasing.

While you’ll have many things to consider, don’t let this cause you analysis paralysis. Take this episode as a guideline for how to choose, figure out your goals and preferences, and then select the platforms intentionally to work best for you.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet still achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy and use the promo code PODCAST.

CONNECT WITH MELISSA GULLER:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Teachable

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Play to Your Strengths with Julia de'Caneva

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0500

From an early age, we are taught to work on the things we don’t excel in and to improve on our weaknesses rather than focusing and leaning into our strengths, which has so many benefits. It’s time to change our approach. That’s why episode 88 of The Positively Living Podcast is about playing to your strengths!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Julia de'Caneva shares the importance of leaning into your strengths and provides actionable steps you can take right now to notice and track patterns to better understand those strengths.

Julia and I cover the following topics:

The psychology and challenges behind using your strengths.
How we define natural strengths & letting go of the idea that something has to be difficult to be valuable.
Seeking out others that are a balance to your strengths.
Learning your own strengths so that you can also recognize strengths in others.
Redefining how we look at a weakness & flipping the script in an incredibly encouraging way.

Once you start looking, you might just notice your strengths in the most unexpected places.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH JULIA DE’CANEVA:

Cliffton Strengths Assessment

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Ep 31: Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Schlabach

Ep 56: Conquer Your Inner Critic through Play with Jeff Harry

Ep 59: Scaling Your Biz Efficiently and Effectively with Casey Gromer

The Done App

VIA Strengths Test

Find Other Strengths/ Personality Tests

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Stress Free Content Creation with Emily Aborn

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0500

You’ve probably heard the phrase “content is king,” but as an entrepreneur, you may also find it frustrating and overwhelming. The good news is, it doesn’t have to be! That’s why episode 87 of The Positively Living Podcast is about stress-free content creation!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Emily Aborn shares the importance of using a content creation system that works for you and provides actionable steps you can take right now to create that simple, effective system for content creation that removes stress so you can be consistent and confident in what you share.

Emily and I cover the following topics:

How your content acts as a bridge that is needed to bring clients to you before you can start selling to them.
Why many of us struggle with content and how you can begin to overcome this.
The 4 basic types of content you need to focus on to nurture your “content garden”.
Setting “guardrails” around your content to keep you focused and on track.
Planning out 3 months of content ideas and breaking this down to schedule posts in advance.
Reframing the concept of reusing content to make your brand cohesive, not repetitive.

The biggest takeaway from this episode is to find out what works for you both in how you plan and what platforms you show up on and doing so consistently.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH EMILY ABORN:

She Built This Podcast

She Built This Podcast: Know Thyself, the Key to Productivity: A Conversation with Lisa Zawrotny

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Positively Living Ep 44: Ethical Marketing Rebellion

Positively Living Ep 54: Repurpose Your Content to Increase Productivity and Income with Yong Pratt

All Trails App

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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3 Simple Systems to Organize Your Life + Business

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 00:00:00 -0500

Systems are game-changers for our lives, especially when we’re juggling multiple things, like business and family. They streamline what we do, which is the foundation for efficiency, and the best part is they don’t have to be complicated to be effective. That’s why episode 86 of The Positively Living Podcast is about 3 simple systems to organize your life and business!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of living proactively versus reactively and I provide actionable steps you can take right now to choose simple systems that will work for your life and your business.

The 3 systems I cover in this episode are:

Using calendar management to organize your life and avoid the added stress that comes with missing appointments or overbooking yourself.
Implementing a task management system to control what you need to do and when you need to do it.
Setting up an information management system so that you can access the right information at the right time.

Living in a space where you know what to expect and can confidently anticipate and plan for what’s going to happen, as well as deal with changes that come up, reduces stress and increases success.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet still achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session: a heart-opening, mind-expanding, goal-setting session that gives you the clarity needed to determine your best ste ps forward. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 7: The Impact of Stress and How to Manage it for Good

Episode 69: Tackle Your ToDo List in Four Simple Steps

Episode 70: Is Click Up Right for Me with Layla Pomper

View all tools on the blog post.

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Building a Profitable Purpose-driven Brand with Ashlee Sang

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0500

As a purpose-driven business, aligning your messaging with your values and sharing what you stand for is integral to being profitable and standing out amongst the rest. That’s why episode 85 of The Positively Living Podcast is about building a profitable, purpose-driven brand!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Ashlee Sang shares the importance of knowing your purpose and values and provides actionable steps you can take right now to align your business with that purpose and values in order to do good, build connections, and impact others.

Ashlee and I cover the following topics:

What it means to have a purpose-driven brand and how it can help you avoid unaligned distractions.
The importance of consistency in your content.
Your visual branding and brand messaging work together to tell the overall story of your business and build trust between you and your customers.
Simple ways to implement business for good to break the misconception that only large businesses can make an impact.
Guiding you through the next steps for you to pivot your business into a more profitable, purpose-driven, impactful business model.

Every business decision can start a ripple effect, so why not start a ripple that does good for others.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet still achieving more, join me for a Strategy Session. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy and use the promo code PODCAST.

CONNECT WITH ASHLEE SANG:

Stand Up to Stand Out Workbook

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Get the Core Values Worksheet in my Free Resources hub!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Positively Living Podcast: Three Signs Your Biz Needs Rebranding with Maria Platusic

Positively Living Podcast: Ethical Marketing Rebellion with Dr. Michelle Mazur

Positively Living Podcast: Ethical Copy that Converts with Mia Francis- Poulin

Positively Living Podcast is ClickUp Right For Me with Layla Pomper

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Tap Into Your Inner Wisdom with Kavita Melwani

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Aligned and Soulful Leadership Podcast

When we tap into the wisdom we hold within ourselves, we are one step closer to living an authentic and satisfying life. That’s why episode 84 of The Positively Living Podcast is about how to tap into your inner wisdom!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, my guest Kavita Melwani shares the importance of calming your nervous system and provides actionable steps you can take right now to tap into your inner wisdom to hear and acknowledge the messages meant for you.

Kavita and I cover the following topics:

Paying attention to what your body is trying to tell you by noticing the physical effects that lasting stress can have on you.
The importance of movement in order to calm your mind.
How aCceptance, of the world and yourself, if a key step to tapping into your wisdom.
How to tap into your inner wisdom in order to pick up on the messages that are meant for us.
Making the distinction between the internal fear you feel when presented with an exciting opportunity versus the fear you feel when something isn’t right for you.

Self-awareness is the key to staying aligned, living well, and being productive.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH KAVITA MELWANI:

Abundance Visualization

The Enlightened Heart Free Guide

Episode 7: The Impact of Stress and How to Manage it for Good

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 30: Feel the Fear, Do It Anyway with Raven Waterman

Episode 33: Embracing Change with Nicole Mixdorf

Episode 79: How Your Body Responds to Stress with Christa Bevan

Insight Meditation Timer

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

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[Strategy Call] Juggling All the Things with Amanda Acker

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Facebook- The Let Good Things In Show

It isn’t time we manage, but rather what we do with it. So “time management” can be better described as energy management, priority management, and self-management. This is most critical when we’re balancing business and family. We tackle this challenge on episode 83 of The Positively Living Podcast in a strategy session with Amanda Acker, who is struggling to juggle so many demands!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of applying energy, priority, and self management to design your schedule in a more productive way and I provide actionable steps you can take right now to rework your typical to-do list into something manageable and effective

Amanda and I cover the following topics:

Sketching out Amanda’s schedule to reverse engineer her workload.
Prioritizing tasks based on the amount of focus needed to complete them.
Being intentional and selective about who you share your time with.
The importance of setting aside time for yourself to do the things that bring you joy and relaxation (and how doing that is easier than you think)
Reframing your to-do list into a to-choose list to better tackle your tasks.

Amanda encourages her audience to rise above the labels of society and burst through the ceilings you’ve put on top of yourself and after today’s episode, I am confident she will have the structure needed to do more of that herself.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH AMANDA ACKER:

Let Good Things In Show

Facebook- Amanda Marie Acker

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Episode 3: Four Steps For Effective Time Management

Episode 69: Tackle Your ToDo List in Four Simple Steps

Get the The Focus File Worksheet in my Free Resources Hub

4 Tendencies Quiz

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

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The Planning Mindset You Need to Create Your Best Year with Angela Henderson

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Positively Living: Is ClickUp Right for Me with Layla Pomper

As an entrepreneur, your mindset is equally as important as your strategy. You can defer the foundational work for a bit but eventually, it will catch up to you. That’s why episode 82 is about the planning mindset you need to create your best year!

In this episode, my guest Angela Henderson shares the importance of understanding what is keeping you from achieving your goals and provides actionable steps you can take right now to do the foundational work to conquer your mindset and crush your goals.

Angela and I cover the following topics:

The 7 major mindset blocks you need to get to the root of and address before setting your goals.
The 3 reasons you need goals and the 3 reasons you may not be achieving them.
Understanding what success looks like to you and aligning your goals with that vision of success.
The number 1 thing keeping business owners from achieving their goals and what to do about it.

By addressing your mindset blocks first and understanding what matters to you, you can go so much further with your goals than ever before.

Learn more at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH ANGELA HENDERSON:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find links to books/gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The Go- Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann

Positively Living: Freedom from the Hustle

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Boost Caregiver Resilience through Creativity with Kate Chapman

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0500

As a caregiver, there is so much that is demanded of you on a daily basis so it is more important than ever to build resilience. That’s why episode 81 of The Positively Living Podcast is about boosting caregiver resilience through setting boundaries and using creativity!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Kate Chapman shares the importance of bringing joy into difficult moments and actionable steps you can take right now to find a creative outlet or create your sanctuary, whether it be physically or mentally.

Kate and I cover the following topics:

The life and mindset pivots that happen when you become a caregiver.
Choosing the meaning you are putting onto everyday scenarios in order to change your perspective on the situation at hand.
Bringing a theatre games mindset into the everyday world of caring for an Alzheimers or dementia patient.
Finding a creative outlet for yourself or building a sanctuary for you to escape to and be with yourself as needed.
How Kate’s constant creative response led her to buy a billboard and alter her environment to reflect back reminders to herself that she needed in that moment of time.

Using the tips we talked about today, you can build resilience no matter what caregiving or other demands come your way.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH KATE CHAPMAN:

Building Resilience Through Self Care with Gillian Behnke

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Martha Beck Resources:

The Gathering Room

Bewildered Podcast

Books

Positively Living Episodes:

My Caregiving and Clutter Story

Forgiveness and Resilience with R. Patryce Bryant

Intentional Happiness with Julie Leonard

Reduce Stress and Connect More Through Humor with Lisa David Olson

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Navigating Grief through Humor with Katie Rössler

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0500

We all grieve differently and it is important for you to decide how to grieve in the best way for you, even if others don’t support or understand it. That’s why episode 80 of The Positively Living Podcast is about navigating grief through humor!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Katie Rössler shares the importance of understanding how all life experiences feed into the bigger picture and gives actionable steps you can take right now to experience grief to the fullest in order to heal and grow from it.

Katie and I cover the following topics:

Grief is largely linked with death and loss, but it can be so much more than that.
Using the movie theory to understand how each and every one of your life experiences had to happen for the bigger picture of your life.
Instead of asking, “why me,” reframing the question to “what is the lesson or deeper intention behind what is happening” to redefine grief and suffering.
The mental and emotional freedom that comes from addressing your grief.
Giving yourself permission to use humor to cope even if it may not make sense to others.

Grief, gratitude, and joy can coexist beautifully and are meant to support each other, helping you move through the pain into living life.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH KATIE ROSSLER:

The New Face of Grief Book

Episode 14: How We Grow Through Grief with Katie Rossler

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find links to books/gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The New Face of Grief (Katie Rossler)
Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist

Episode 29: Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Episode 37: Estate Organizing with Eileen Moynahan

Episode 63: Letting Go of the Weight of Grief with Sherry Trentini

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How Your Body Responds to Stress with Christa Bevan

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Voxer Accountability On-Demand Coaching

Physical stress remains in our body far beyond the events or “stressors” that put it there. This stress needs to be removed and luckily, there are simple ways to declutter your body of this stress. That’s why episode 79 of The Positively Living Podcast is about how your body responds to stress!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Christa Bevan shares the importance of decluttering the physical stress your body is holding onto and actionable steps you can take right now to discharge that stress and reset yourself.

Christa and I cover the following topics:

What stress trauma looks like and what happens to your body when experiencing it.
Distinguishing between stressors and stress.
What happens when we avoid dealing with stress in our bodies and 9 ways to discharge it.
Adding TRE to your toolbox ALONG WITH talk therapy, meditation, yoga, etc. to round out your wellness routine.
How we can prepare for or plan around stressful circumstances.

Stress relief is not a one size fits all journey so it is important to know all of your options and choose the best ones for you.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH CHRISTA BEVAN:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

The Impact of Stress and How to Manage it for Good

Stress Relief through Self-acceptance with Jane Tornatore

Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Reduce Stress and Connect Through Humor with Lisa David Olson

Increase Focus and Reduce Stress through Music with Tim Ringgold

Voxer

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Overcome Limiting Beliefs and Boost Confidence with Lucy Liu

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Lack of confidence led by our own limiting beliefs is something the majority of us share and it keeps us playing small in our own lives. That’s why episode 78 of The Positively Living Podcast is about overcoming limiting beliefs and boosting your confidence!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Lucy Liu shares the importance of acknowledging where your limiting beliefs come from in order to overcome them and actionable steps you can take right now to drop those limiting beliefs and live your best life.

Lucy and I cover the following topics:

The external factors that lead to the limiting beliefs we formulate internally.
Practicing turning our negative limiting beliefs into positive self-talk.
Acknowledging that you hold the power to make the choice to change your mindset.
Taking inspired action to the baby steps towards conquering your fears one by one.
Journaling your wins alongside your gratitude to boost your confidence by celebrating your successes.

It all starts with you making the choice to be confident and practicing it every day until it becomes automatic.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LUCY LIU:

Positively Living: The #1 Tool To Achieve Productivity

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Positively Living: How to Harness the Power of Habits

Positively Living: Feel the Fear, Do it Anyway with Raven Waterman

Positively Living: Embracing Change with Nicole Mixdorf

Positively Living: Conquer Your Inner Critic Through Play with Jeff Harry

Positively Living: Eco-Friendly Living and Clean Beauty with Kelly Bonanno

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Unlock Your Past to Transform Your Future with Heather Murphy

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 00:00:00 -0400

We are often consumed with the uncertainty of the future, but by becoming more self-aware, we are able to pave the path to a chosen future for ourselves. That’s why episode 77 of The Positively Living Podcast is about unlocking your past to transform your future!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Heather Murphy shares the importance of using your ancestry to become self-aware and actionable steps you can take right now to use this knowledge to inform your present choices and change your future ones.

Heather and I cover the following topics:

How uncovering her family tree led Heather to uncover where her jaded perceptions came from and why they were blocking her from progressing in her business.
Letting go of the traditions you are unknowingly holding onto (that may be holding you back).
How to keep the information we uncover from affecting us negatively.
Researching your ancestors is a gateway to a deeper sense of compassion with not only your family but strangers as well.
Where to start if you want to begin use your own family history to empower future choices.

We have the power of choice and we can only strengthen that when we become aware of ourselves and others.

CONNECT WITH HEATHER MURPHY:

Stories in Our Roots Podcast

Release Limiting Beliefs Freebie

Top 10 Geneology and Family Tree Building Tools

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Out of Milk App

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How to Pitch Yourself Like a Pro with Angie Trueblood

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Positively Living Podcast: Speaking Your Mind and Mission with Carol Cox

Whether you’re a business owner or you have a personal mission that needs to be shared with the world, one of the best ways to increase your visibility is through guest appearances and podcast guesting is one of the simplest and most effective. That’s why episode 76 of The Positively Living Podcast is about pitching yourself like a pro!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Angie Trueblood shares the importance of guesting on other people’s podcasts to boost your visibility and actionable steps you can take right now to reduce your time and increase your effectiveness when pitching your next guest opportunity.

Angie and I cover the following topics:

The benefits of pitching yourself as a guest on other people’s podcasts.
Common mistakes that are easily avoided and tips to elevate your pitching game and successfully land guest appearances in alignment with your brand.
Angie’s secret for the most effective and efficient ways to pitch yourself despite having a busy schedule.
Using what you’ve learned and mastered about pitching and applying it to other aspects of your business and landing quality guests for your platform.
Focusing on the quality of guest appearances over the quantity or perceived value from “big names” that don’t necessarily bring you the visibility you want.

The only “perfect pitch” is the one that leads with value and focuses on building a genuine connection.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less while achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session: a heart-opening, mind-expanding, goal-setting session that gives you the clarity needed to determine your best steps forward. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH ANGIE TRUEBLOOD:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Headliner App

Go Pitch Yourself Podcast: How to Approach a Mama Bear Podcast Host with Kendra Hennessy

Go Pitch Yourself Podcast: Pitching High-Profile Guests For Your Podcast with Kate Kordsmeier

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Speaking Your Mind and Mission with Carol Cox

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Speaking up can be challenging, especially for women. It is my goal to encourage you to find the best way to share your views and to be a thought leader. That’s why episode 75 of The Positively Living Podcast with Carol Cox is about speaking your mind and mission!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Carol Cox and I are sharing the importance of speaking your mind and mission and actionable steps you can take right now to feel more comfortable and confident in your message.

Carol shares:

five questions to answer that will show us where to begin as thought leaders.
the challenges we face as we begin our thought leadership journey, why we hesitate, what helps us push through, and what it can look like for each of us to be a thought leader
how she encourages the use of our preferred content
how baby steps are an effective way to start speaking your mind and mission. (You don’t have to do it all at once.)

Being a thought leader does involve leadership, but what makes it effective is not the platform or style -- it’s the message.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH CAROL COX:

Carol's gift Welcome, Positively Living Listeners! | Speaking Your Brand

Speaking Your Brand

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Speaking your Brand episodes: 114, 232, 233

Ep 29: Trauma-Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Brene Brown Podcasts

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Living a Multi-Passionate Life with Lauren Yee

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Website: cultivatorofcuriosity.com

Multi-passionate people have been conditioned to bottleneck their focus and interests and often feel forced to choose ONE path. I would like to reimagine the possibility of “having it all” by accepting and embracing all of the things we love and doing them in a way that fits our life and energy. That’s why episode 74 of The Positively Living Podcast is about living a multi-passionate life!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Lauren Yee shares the importance of accepting and embracing your many interests and actionable steps you can take right now to find harmony in incorporating your passions into your life in a healthy way.

Lauren and I cover the following topics:

What it means to be multi-passionate and how to identify this within yourself.
Being conditioned from a very young age that the “correct” path is to choose one interest and career path and follow that.
How exploring your other passions and interests can jolt you out of a mundane routine and in return offer up more energy, passion, and perspective to all of the aspects of your life.
Reflecting on your interests and prioritizing them to fill your needs.
Understanding how your play values link to your personal life values.

You can create harmony in your life and find greater productivity when you embrace your many passions and explore what makes you uniquely you.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LAUREN YEE:

Website: thisusnow.com

Positively Living Podcast: Conquer Your Inner Critic Through Play with Jeff Harry

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Emilie Wapnick Multipotentialite TED talk

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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[Strategy Call] Regain Momentum and Stay Productive with Stacy Kessler

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 00:00:00 -0400

One of the reasons most entrepreneurs start a business is to have the freedom to live life, take off when they want, and have the business support them in doing so. We need to encourage work-life harmony to regain momentum, remain flexible, and stay productive. That’s why episode 73 of The Positively Living Podcast (part of the Strategy Session Series) is about regaining momentum and staying productive!

In this strategy call episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing with my guest Stacy Kessler the importance of curbing self-doubt as an entrepreneur and actionable steps you can take right now to regain momentum in your business after a break.

I also cover the following topics with Stacy:

The two reasons Stacy struggles with productivity: self-doubt and energy and why you may be struggling as well.
Making a point to ask for client feedback as a reminder of how many clients you help and the value you bring them.
Tips to prepare before and after a vacation to ensure the motivation and momentum are there when you return to work.
Repurposing content and setting up automated processes so that your business can work even when you’re not.
Approaching your tasks with the energy you have and not the energy you are comparing to what you see in others.

You are going to love how simple and doable these solutions are and I think they’ll work great whether you’re vacationing or shifting seasons in your business.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet still achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session.

CONNECT WITH STACY KESSLER:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find links to books/gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Gretchen Rubin - The Four Tendencies

Episode 58 [Strategy Cal] Increase Productivity Based in Personality with Venese Lau

Episode 54 Repurpose Your Content to Increase Productivity and Income with Yong Pratt

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Align Your Message to Your Ideal Client with Alishbah Lakhani

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 00:00:00 -0400

It is so important to get clear on who you’re talking to, what you're saying and why before you even start marketing to your ideal client. That’s why episode 72 of The Positively Living Podcast is about aligning your message to your ideal client!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Alishbah Lakhani shares the importance of breaking down and truly understanding why you are in business and actionable steps you can take right now to reframe the messaging in your marketing to align with your ideal clients.

Alishbah and I cover the following topics:

Knowing your why in order to keep you focused on the long game that is marketing.
Speaking your clients’ language and telling them how what you are doing benefits them in a way they resonate with and tips to do just that.
3 simple questions to ask yourself about your ideal client to tailor your messaging to solve a problem or alleviate their stress.
The importance of having clear directions and messaging in order to lead your client towards your call to action.
The 3 components that are vital to aligning your messaging with your ideal clients.

Whether you’re creating a course, updating a website, or seeking to be effective on social media, these tips will ensure you’re setting yourself up for success.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet still achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session.

CONNECT WITH ALISHBAH LAKHANI:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

7 Levels Deep Exercise

Start With Why by Simon Sinek

Essentialism by Greg McKeown

Audible

Ep 64: Ethical Copy that Converts with Mia Francis- Poulin

Ep 44: Ethical Marketing Rebellion with Dr. Michelle Mazur

Ep 71: Choosing the Right Social Media Platform with Mariana Padilla

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Choosing the Right Social Media Platform with Mariana Padilla

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Positively Living Episode 60: Social Media Detox

There are countless social media platforms to choose from and it’s impossible to show up 100% on all of them in a way that works for your business. That’s why episode 71 of The Positively Living Podcast is about choosing the right social media platform!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Mariana Padilla shares the importance of knowing the strategies you can leverage behind each social media platform and actionable steps you can take right now to meet your customers where they are by choosing the right social media platform.

Mariana and I cover the following topics:

Leveraging the most popular social media platforms in order to match your message and your mission.
Gaining clarity on social media goals and pairing them with the right platform to get you there.
The key items we need to know about our audience and our business in order to target which platform resonates best.
Using social media to build a value-based community so your audience feels like they are part of your brand.
Analytics tracking to know which social media strategies are driving engagement, and which ones are not.

By choosing the right social media to focus your time, you will avoid the burnout that comes from trying to be everywhere at once.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet still achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session: a heart-opening, mind-expanding, goal-setting session that gives you the clarity needed to determine your best steps forward. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy and be sure to use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH MARIANA PADILLA:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Buy Lisa a coffee!

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Positively Living Episode 65: Ethical Copy that Converts

Cyfe Analytics

Canva

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1, Volume 2, Volume 3

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Is ClickUp Right for Me with Layla Pomper

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Project management platforms are as varied as the users and processes behind them and definitely not a one-size-fits-all. That’s why episode 70 of The Positively Living Podcast is the first in a series of episodes helping you choose the best one for you. Today we ask if ClickUp is right for you!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Layla Pomper is sharing the importance of first understanding how your brain works best and the actionable steps you can take right now to set up your project management platform in a way that works for YOU.

Layla and I cover the following topics:

How it’s crucial to determine your process before your platform and the order of setting your systems up for success.
Questioning your business practices in order to ditch outdated systems and adopt more intentional processes.
Reframing intentionality into “familiarity” in order to remain open to exploring new systems and processes in your business.
How to know if you are drawn to more flexible or more rigid project management systems (or if you require one that meets in the middle).
Using ClickUp templates to gain familiarity and comfortability with the platform and then adjusting towards a flow that works best for you and your team.
The 2 list approach that will get you to a million-dollar business.

Understanding your process is the number one factor in creating a platform that works best for you.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet still achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session: a heart-opening, mind-expanding, goal-setting session that gives you the clarity needed to determine your best steps forward. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy and be sure to use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LAYLA POMPER:

Facebook- Process Driven Collective

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Positively Living: The #1 Tool to Achieve Productivity

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

ClickUp

Missive- Collaborative Email

Dance Song Playlist Vol1 & Vol 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Tackle Your ToDo List in Four Simple Steps

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Although we cannot control what life throws at us, we can learn the best ways to manage it with the right tools. That’s why episode 69 of The Positively Living Podcast is about tackling your to-do list!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of managing your life by using to-do lists in a productive and healthy way and actionable steps you can take right now to become more efficient so you can live more and achieve more.

I cover the following topics:

How a to-do list that is seemingly helpful can easily become cluttered and actually create more stress.
Deleting the items from your to-do list that you do not intend to do is acting as a distraction from the more important tasks.
Delegating items on your list that others can do by asking “how can this get done” instead of “how am I going to get this done?”
Delaying tasks that are important but are meant for another time.
Tackling your tasks head-on now that you’ve narrowed it down to the important items you should be focusing on in the present moment.

Having a list that reflects what really needs to be done gives you clarity and boosts your confidence and focus. Tackle your to-do list the right way and you can't help but be more profitable and productive in your business and everyday life.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet still achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session: a heart-opening, mind-expanding, goal-setting session that gives you the clarity needed to determine your best steps forward. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy which includes the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Episode 2 -Declutter Your Life with the SIMPLE System

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)
The 80/20 Principle

Episode 18 - Declutter Through Delegation

Episode 61- Freedom From The Hustle

Positively Productive Free Resources Library

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 &

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Mental Health for Men with Tim Beisiegel

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Focused on Forward Podcast

Acknowledging trauma and seeking help is not a weakness, but rather the most courageous thing that you can do for yourself. That’s why episode 68 of The Positively Living Podcast is about mental health for men!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Tim Beisiegel shares the importance of normalizing mental health, specifically for men, and offers actionable steps you can take right now to acknowledge your trauma and open yourself up to seeking help.

Tim and I cover the following topics:

Tim's life experiences from childhood leading up to his daughter being hospitalized for 97 days and how that led him to advocating for mental health and normalizing seeking help.
The ways in which society’s perception surrounding men’s vulnerability is extremely toxic and dates back farther than we recognize.
Having conversations on the topic of mental health is the number one way in which we can reverse the stigma and normalize mental health for all.
The difference between acknowledging and accepting your trauma versus deflecting your trauma.

It’s time that we not only support men seeking counseling and therapy, but that we encourage it.

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet still achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session: a heart-opening, mind-expanding, goal-setting session that gives you the clarity needed to determine your best steps forward. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy and be sure to use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

CONNECT WITH TIM BEISIEGEL:

Twitter- Focused on Forward

YouTube- Focused on Forward

Funny Science Fiction Podcast

YouTube- Funny Science Fiction

Twitter- Funny Science Fiction

Instagram- Funny Science Fiction

Upcoming- Pop Culture Addicts Podcast

Instagram- Pop Culture Addicts

LINKS AND RESOURCES:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel VanDerKolk

It Didn’t Start With You by Mark Wolynn

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottleib

Authors: Melody Beattie, Anne Lamott, Brene Brown

Psychology Today

Ending The Stigma Podcast

Episode 4

Episode 7

Episode 14

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Prioritizing Sleep for Health and Productivity with Mollie McGlocklin

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0400

When we are under stress or constant overwhelm, sleep is often the first thing we forfeit in order to tackle our growing to-do lists. Unfortunately, giving up this adequate sleep can lead to an even longer list of health concerns.

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Mollie McGlocklin shares the benefits that sleep has on our bodies, minds, and overall health and actionable steps you can take right now to train yourself to work with your circadian rhythm so you can fall asleep sooner and stay asleep longer.

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet still achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session: a heart-opening, mind-expanding, goal-setting session that gives you the clarity needed to determine your best steps forward. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy and be sure to use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

Mollie and I cover the following topics:

What happens to our bodies during sleep and why it is so important we get adequate sleep every night.
The list of issues connecting to lack of sleep involving the cardiovascular, brain, and hormonal health
How our circadian rhythm works and how we can leverage this and train ourselves to cue better sleep.
How food and screen time have a bigger impact on sleep than we may realize and what we can do to rest easier.
Resources and diagnostic tools you can start using to access the quality and details of your sleep and other important health markers.

Getting adequate sleep is one of the best things we can do to bump up our overall health, focus, and productivity.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH MOLLIE MCGLOCKLIN:

Newsletter

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Why We Sleep- Matthew Walker

The Circadian Code- Satchin Panda

Chasing the Sun- Linda Geddes

Ep 61 - Freedom From the Hustle

Oura Ring

Bip Strap Fitness Watch

Whoop Band

Muse Headband

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

How to Trust Your Gut to Make the Right Choice with Gwen Austin

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Following your gut can help you identify what is right for you so you can start letting go of self-doubt and find a life that will flow in our favor. That’s why episode 66 of The Positively Living Podcast is about how to trust your gut and make the right choice!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Gwen Austin shares the importance of following the path that feels authentic to you, no matter how scary it may feel. You’ll receive actionable steps you can take right now to identify that genuine gut feeling and find what feels right for you.

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session: a heart-opening, mind-expanding, goal-setting session that gives you the clarity needed to determine your best steps forward. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy and be sure to use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

Gwen and I cover the following topics:

How she trusted her guy to create a strong and supportive community of women that lifts one another up and encourages further success.
What it means to trust your gut and why we often don’t.
What it takes to move through obstacles and push past the people who are encouraging you to give up on your instinct.
Letting go of what we believe life “has to” look like in order to live the life that is meant for us.

As you move forward, working on trusting yourself, don't look too deep into the future. Focus on what you can do today and start taking bite-sized pieces to keep you moving forward.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH QWEN AUSTIN:

Website (With All Associated Links)

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The Help (Kathryn Stockett)

Start with Why (Simon Sinek)

The Four Tendencies (Gretchen Rubin)

Episodes 13 | 30 | 31 | 55 | 62

Trello

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Ethical Copy that Converts with Mia Francis-Poulin

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0400

In marketing, we still see people using misleading sales copy for self benefit and profit without regard for the consumer. That’s why episode 65 of The Positively Living Podcast is about reversing the strategies we have been taught to use and replacing them with ethical copy that converts!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, my guest Mia Francis- Poulin shares the importance of taking responsibility of marketing with integrity and actionable steps you can take right now to infuse humanity back into the buying process—starting with your messaging.

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session: a heart-opening, mind-expanding, goal-setting session that gives you the clarity needed to determine your best steps forward. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy and be sure to use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

Mia and I cover the following topics:

What is ethical marketing and how we can spot sleazy sales tactics that we might not even recognize as such.
Maintaining the respect of our clients while still making the sale with the copy we write and share.
Why business owners have a responsibility to spread messages backed with integrity.
Questions to ask yourself when creating copy for your business to stay in alignment with ethical and responsible sales strategies.
Why ethical copy is actually more effective and leads to customer retention and loyalty.

It is possible to build a profitable business without doing so by any means necessary. There are avenues to make the sale all while doing what is morally and ethically right.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH MIA FRANCIS-POULIN :

Command Your Copy Course

Instagram

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Three Signs Your Biz Needs Rebranding with Maria Platusic

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Branding, which is the visual side of your business, is only one small part of what you need to properly market it. That’s why episode 64 of The Positively Living Podcast is about the three signs that your business needs a rebrand!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Maria Platusic and I are sharing the importance of having a brand strategy and actionable steps you can take right now to know if a rebrand is right for you.

Maria Platusic and I cover the following topics:

What a brand foundation truly is and does
The top three signs you need a rebrand for your business
How critical our knowledge of our ideal client is and to what level we need to know the details
The distinction between visuals and messaging and how they need to work together
What to do once you realize the rebrand is necessary and how you can definitely make progress without reinventing the wheel.

The idea of rebranding may sound intimidating, but Maria helps us see that it can actually be invigorating and empowering.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH MARIA PLATUSIC:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Letting Go of the Weight of Grief with Sherry Trentini

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Listener Advisory: In this episode we talk about some triggering subjects, including loss of a loved one, suicide, and grief through that process.

We love to open up the conversation for these topics but understand this may not be for everyone. Episode 63 of The Positively Living Podcast is about decluttering mentally and physically through grief.

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m talking with Sherry Trentini, sharing the importance of letting go of the weight of grief and providing actionable steps you can take right now to release the pressure you feel as you grieve.

Sherry and I cover the following topics:

Not measuring your grief to others’
What parts of mental clutter involve grief and how to declutter it
When it’s time to let go of physical items after losing a loved one
How we can tap into gratitude to release the weight of grief.

Losing a loved one is one of the hardest things we’ll experience. Sherry and I talk about our own experiences of losing a loved one in the past, and share how we felt letting go of those mental and physical items or ideas over time. I hope this episode offers healing and a sense of peace and understanding to those who have gone through it and for those who will.

Thank you for listening!

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH SHERRY TRENTINI:

Grief Recovery Handbook

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Grief Episode with Katie Rossler

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Change Episode with Nicole Mixdorf

Trauma Episode with Mallory Jackson

My Clutter and Caregiving Story

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

The Benefits of a Business Sabbatical with Katrina McGhee

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Our society's focus on not quitting has kept us from discerning what is actually meant for us and what is in alignment with our goals. That’s why episode 62 of The Positively Living Podcast is about the benefits of a business sabbatical!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Katrina McGhee shares the importance of recognizing when it is time to take a break and actionable steps you can take right now to step away and get the things you truly need out of your break.

Katrina and I cover the following topics:

The warning signs to look for when you need to step away instead of just taking a small step back.
What to do during your break, whether you planned it or not.
The clarity and fresh spark for your passion that comes from stepping away from it and being reminded of why you do it in the first place.
Establishing the “themes” or the things you need to get from your break.
Approaching re-entry into your business or career once your break is complete.

It’s time to release the hustle culture mentality and learn for yourself how productive a break can be.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH KATRINA MCGHEE:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Positively Living Podcast on fear with Raven Waterman

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Marco Polo App

Positively Living Podcast on change with Nicole Mixdorf

Positively Living Podcast on trauma with Mallory Jackson

Positively Living Podcast on authenticity with Mallory Schlabach

Positively Living Podcast on play with Jeff Harry

Dance Song Playlist

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Why You Must Free Yourself from the Hustle Mentality

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 00:00:00 -0400

We are often so focused on working hard and doing more that we find ourselves run down and burnt out. That’s why episode 61 of The Positively Living Podcast is about finding freedom from the hustle mentality!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of letting go of the demands of hustle culture and I provide actionable steps you can take right now to change your approach to productivity.

I cover the following topics:

What hustle culture is and how ingrained it is.
Recognizing the hustle culture language we hear on a daily basis.
The consequences and negative implications behind hustle culture.
The importance of rest on your productivity.
Five tips to free yourself from the hustle and change your approach to productivity.

Working smarter and happier and allowing yourself rest and reflection is the best approach to being productive and making a difference in this world.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The Productivity Project (Chris Bailey)

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Social Media Detox with Deanna Seymour

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Social media is a proven productivity buster and can easily become too overwhelming, too distracting, and overall too much to handle. That’s why episode 60 of The Positively Living Podcast is about taking a social media detox!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Deanna Seymour shares the importance of releasing the “shoulds” of social media and actionable steps you can take right now to be intentional in the ways you use social media in a way that works for YOU.

Deanna and I cover the following topics:

Deanna’s story of what led her to leave five social media platforms behind and return to only one.
How ingrained social media is in our lives.
How we lose the human touch behind social media (and how to get it back).
The obliger rebellion: what it is, how it happens, and how to avoid it.
Being intentional with the way you use social media and releasing the “shoulds” that hold you back.

Remember, quality will always win over quantity.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH DEANNA SEYMOUR:

The Imperfect Party Podcast

Family Dance Parties

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Ditch the Diet and Eat Intuitively with Megan Hadley

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Four Tendencies Personality Quiz (and book) are on Favorites page.

Conquer Your Inner Critic through Play with Jeff Harry

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Scaling Your Biz Efficiently and Effectively with Casey Gromer

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Casey’s Freebie: Company Persona

As a multi-passionate, creative entrepreneur, it’s easy to get wrapped up in all the details and ideas, it can become increasingly difficult to prioritize them all. That’s why episode 59 of the Positively Living Podcast is about scaling your biz efficiently and effectively!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Casey Gromer shares the importance of building and following your business blueprint and actionable steps you can take right now to scale your business efficiently and effectively.

Casey and I cover the following topics:

The difference between growing your business and scaling your business.
Tying every aspect of your business back to the core of your vision and purpose statements.
Using Casey’s Business Blueprint to keep on track with your business and avoid getting stuck in analysis paralysis.
What to do with all of the things that don’t necessarily align with your business.
How you can use the Kolbe Assessment to find your counterpart dream team.

At the end of the day, we are all just trying to get by in life. Let’s work together to do better than that for ourselves and each other.

Learn more about Positively Living and Lisa at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH CASEY GROMER:

Business Blueprint

Casey’s Book- A Fresh Wave of Marketing: An Intentional Approach to Marketing for Visionary CEOs

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Episode 58 of the Positively Living Podcast

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Traction by Gino Wickman

Nicki Ramirez Linkedin

Four Tendencies Quiz + Big Five Personality Quiz (on Favorites page)

Kolbe Assessment

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

[Strategy Call] Increase Productivity Based on Personality with Venese Lau

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Personality tests allow us to see a snapshot of our personality at any given time and may be the key to unlocking a more productive life. That’s why episode 58 of The Positively Living Podcast is about increasing your productivity based on your personality!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Venese Lau joins me for a Productivity Boost session. In our session, I show the importance of understanding your personality type and how you can use this information to boost your productivity.

Venese and I cover the following topics:

Using Venese’s personality test results to understand how she works and responds to expectations.
Analysis paralysis and my tips on how to set parameters, deadlines, and choice limits to help get you unstuck.
How to harness your hard-earned knowledge as a Questioner and apply it to new tasks.
My “un-action” items for Venese to gain back control and avoid future burnout.

Making a change in your life isn’t about doing something big at this exact moment in time but rather smaller steps every day to work toward the larger picture.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH VENESE LAU:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The Big Five Personality Test (Resources page)

The Four Tendencies Test & Book

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Eco-Friendly Living and Clean Beauty with Kelly Bonanno

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Clean Beauty Scene Podcast

There is so much confusion and misinformation about what goes into the products we use every day, some of which can be harmful and toxic to our bodies. That’s why episode 57 of The Positively Living Podcast is about eco-friendly living and clean beauty!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Kelly Bonanno shares the importance of understanding what ingredients go into your products and actionable steps you can take right now to ditch those toxic products and replace them with cleaner alternatives, at your own pace.

Kelly and I cover the following topics:

The autoimmune issues and diseases that result from the products we use on a daily basis.
How toxins hide in our everyday products that we might never consider as not being “clean”.
How companies use greenwashing to mislead you into thinking you are using clean products when they really aren’t and how the FDA needs to button up their policies around this.
The top 5 products you can swap out in your home right now to make the biggest impact.
Key toxins to look out for when selecting replacements for your everyday products.
When advocating for climate change, or any global issue, the first place to start is within your own home and evaluating what types of things you are tolerating that contribute to the problem.

We have so much more control over our health and wellness than we realize, and even the smallest steps do make a difference.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Show notes and links can be accessed at https://positivelyproductive.com/podcast/

CONNECT WITH KELLY BONANNO:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Episode 15 of the Positively Living Podcast

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Episode 35 of The Clean Beauty Scene Podcast

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Conquer Your Inner Critic through Play with Jeff Harry

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 00:00:00 -0400

While play sounds like the thing we have Kindergarteners do for their social skills, it is actually a surprisingly fun and simple way for adults to improve creativity and productivity. That’s why episode 56 of The Positively Living Podcast is about conquering your inner critic through play!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Jeff Harry shares the importance of conquering your inner critic through play and actionable steps you can take right now to rediscover your play for a more productive and creative life.

Jeff and I cover the following topics:

Time management vs. energy management.
The scientific ways in which your brain responds to play.
Looking at failure as a positive learning experience to grow from rather than something you should avoid.
Maslow’s Hierarchy and its connection to Blackfoot Beliefs.
A fun way to personify and deal with your inner critic.
Jeff’s 3 step process to rediscover your play after years of being told adults “shouldn’t” play.

You can truly heal the world through play so it's time to ask yourself if you are ready to show up for yourself and do that thing that makes you come most alive. (And if you are, we are here cheering you on!)

CONNECT WITH JEFF HARRY:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Maslow’s Hierarchy and its connection to Blackfoot Beliefs

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Trauma-Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Feel the Fear, Do it Anyway with Raven Waterman

Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Schlabach

Embracing Change with Nicole Mixdorf

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Celebrating Wins and Lessons Learned in Life and Podcasting

Mon, 31 May 2021 00:00:00 -0400

My goal when creating a podcast was to share hope and resources, but it has evolved into so much more than that. Like everything in life, there have been challenges and changes along the way that has made this podcast into what it is today. That’s why episode 55 of The Positively Living Podcast is about celebrating wins and lessons learned in life and podcasting!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of celebrating your wins, no matter how big or small and the lessons I have learned during my podcasting journey.

I cover the following topics:

Celebrating your smaller wins and why that’s just as important as celebrating your big wins.
3 of my favorite life lessons I have learned along the way.
3 of my favorite podcast lessons I have learned since launching.
The Top 3 podcast episodes and a variety of topics you’ll find in over 50 episodes.
A new kind of episode for the new season!
Ways you can be on the podcast (big and small).
Putting gratitude at the forefront of everything you do.

Podcasting has been a dream of mine for a long time and you’ve helped me make that happen, so thank you from the bottom of my heart.

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Become a Guest on My Podcast

Podcast Guest Coaching Inquiry Form

Record an Audio Review for Me

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
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Galati Media: Full Service Podcast Management

Get To Know Me Episode

Caregiver and Clutter Story Episode

Episode 29: Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Episode 18: Declutter Through Delegation with Liz August

Episode 17: How Simplicity Sparks Joy with Tim Lucier

Strategy Call: Balancing Family and Business

Liz August’s website

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

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Repurpose Your Content to Increase Productivity and Income with Yong Pratt

Mon, 24 May 2021 00:00:00 -0400

By reimagining the content you already have, you can easily create more content without reinventing the wheel. That’s why episode 54 of The Positively Living Podcast is about repurposing your content to increase productivity and income!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Yong Pratt shares the importance of repurposing your content and actionable steps you can take right now to find new ways to bring your old content back to life.

Yong and I cover:

Content gold mining—what it is and how it goes deeper than just repurposing your content across different platforms
Using new language and new platforms to give new life to your older content.
The DIG framework model: 3 easy steps to repurpose your content.
What types of content this applies to and some ideas to get you started today.

By repurposing your content, you can not only save time and effort, but you can also boost your income with minimal effort.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Otter.ai

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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How To Tell If I'm Codependent with Mallory Jackson

Mon, 17 May 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Jefferson Community College

Codependency has a personal and professional impact on our lives, but thankfully there are ways to work through it so you can improve relationships and explore self-love. That’s why episode 53 of The Positively Living Podcast is about codependency!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Mallory Jackson shares what codependency is, where it lives within you, and actionable steps you can take right now to unlearn these behaviors.

Mallory Jackson and I cover the following topics:

By definition, what codependency really is.
How codependency can be a trauma response, but one that we can unlearn and course correct.
Common characteristics of codependent people and questions you can ask yourself to aid in self-reflection.
Understanding where codependency shows up for you personally and professionally.
How to set boundaries in life and business.
How codependency might actually be able to help us.

I encourage you to use these powerful descriptions and distinctions about codependency to set boundaries and love yourself unconditionally.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find links to books/gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The New Codependency (Melody Beattie)

Codependent No More (Melody Beattie)

Episode 29 of the Positively Living Podcast: Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Episode 30 of the Positively Living Podcast: Feel the Fear, Do it Anyway with Raven Waterman

Episode 31 of the Positively Living Podcast: Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Schlabach

Episode 33 of the Positively Living Podcast: Embracing Change with Nicole Mixdorf

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Moving Beyond Mom Guilt with Rachel Bailey

Mon, 10 May 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Your Parenting Long Game Podcast

If you are dealing with mom guilt, know that you aren’t alone. You are in good company with so much empathy from me and all the other moms who are trying to move on from it. That’s why episode 52 of The Positively Living Podcast is about moving beyond mom guilt!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Rachel Bailey and I are sharing the importance of understanding that we are all doing our best and guilt and shame do not serve us. We also discuss actionable steps you can take right now to help yourself and your children cope better.

Rachel and I cover the following topics:

How guilt and shame work in tandem, and what traps us and keeps us from taking action
What we need to know about children’s behavior, including ADHD and the executive function of the brain
How imperative it is to shift our expectations as parents, especially during challenge times (like a pandemic)
Ways to reduce the “yuck” and increase our coping skills

The key takeaway of my conversation with Rachel is that, as parents, must start with our struggles first. When we do that, we are much better able to be the parents we want to be.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

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Episode 36 Organizing for Students with Tiffany Blassingame

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The Gift

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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[Strategy Call] Balancing Family and Business with Roxanne Ferber

Mon, 03 May 2021 00:00:00 -0400

As a busy mom balancing family and business life is challenging enough, but when you don’t have a workspace that promotes productivity, it’s even more difficult. That’s why episode 51 of The Positively Living Podcast is about optimizing life and business through the lens of a Productivity Boost session!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, you are listening in on a coaching session with mom blogger Roxanne Ferber. We identify the hurdles of combining mom and biz life with working from home, discuss the importance of working in a flow state, and I provide actionable steps to create a designated zone that works.

Roxanne Ferber and I cover the following topics:

Creating a space in your home to get into that flow state of productivity.
How Roxanne strives for inclusivity within her The Whatever Mom community and how a creative workspace will allow her to do just that.
Setting boundaries around the times that are vital for you to focus on your work without distractions.
Inventorying the types of tasks you do on a day to day basis and breaking them down into what type of energy and environment you need to complete these tasks.

I’m so grateful for all that Roxanne does to create a supportive mom community and that she willingly shared a bit of her own chaos with us today.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

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Episode 20 of the Positively Living Podcast

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Episode 36 of the Positively Living Podcast

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Increase Focus and Reduce Stress Through Music with Tim Ringgold

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Content warning: This episode contains brief mentions of death and suicidal thoughts.

Music has been used to calm, connect, increase focus, soothe pain, and so much more. In Episode 50 of The Positively Living Podcast, Tim Ringgold shares the science behind how music affects the brain and how you can use music to increase productivity and reduce stress.

Tim Ringgold and I cover the following topics:

How music brought Tim out of some truly dark times and saved his life.
Sharing the science behind the undeniable benefits that music can have on our focus and productivity.
The impact music has on our brains and how it relates to the same dopamine release that we get while having sex or eating chocolate.
How the language of music builds culture and is ingrained in our culture.
Replacing the feeling of pain that exists within our brain with music and the science behind how this actually works.

As humans, we are wired to express ourselves musically and we can do that in so many ways.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
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Focus at Will app

Breath (James Nestor)

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Breathwork to Reduce Stress and Anxiety with Sarah Novak

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Meditation can be difficult for some people, but it isn’t the only practice you can use to breathe easier. That’s why episode 49 of The Positively Living Podcast is about using breathwork to reduce stress and anxiety!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Sarah Novak and I are sharing the importance of understanding trauma and how it affects our bodies. We also chat about actionable steps you can take right now to reduce your overwhelm with breathwork.

Sarah and I cover the following topics:

What breathwork is and how it differs from what we think of in yoga and meditation
How we learn self-awareness through breathwork and tuning into our bodies
What trauma is and how it presents itself in our bodies
If there is actually a wrong way to do breathwork

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create optimize your life and business.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

PLP Episode 8: Toxic Positivity

PLP Episode 14: Growing through Grief

PLP Episode 29: Mallory Jackson

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Reduce Stress and Connect More through Humor with Lisa David Olson

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Many of us navigate towards humor to diffuse a heavy situation and in episode 48 of The Positively Living Podcast we learn why it works so well, and how humor can connect us and help us communicate better. You’ll be inspired to use humor more in life and business!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Lisa David Olson is sharing the importance of humor in our lives and actionable steps you can take right now to connect with others through it.

Lisa David Olson and I cover the following topics:

Lisa’s story of healing trauma through humor
Stress-reducing benefits of laughter, physically and emotionally
How humor can be used in business and relationships to encourage community, creativity, and empathy.
How humor connects us with one another and makes us feel unified.

It’s a beautiful human experience that can juxtapose painful, challenging life experiences with joy and gratitude.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH LISA DAVID OLSON:

Counter Clockwise Facebook Group

Laughs On Wry: An Improvisor’s Memoir

Stranger Connections Podcast

Phun on the Phone

YouTube- What's Your Point?

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Ep. 29 - Trauma-Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Ep. 23 - Pay Attention, Find Your Purpose with Michelle Perry

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Accessing Creativity through Mindfulness with Izolda Trakhtenberg

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Innovation is a gift to the world that we access through creativity. But how do we unlock our creativity? This week, episode 47 of The Positively Living Podcast is about inviting creativity into our lives!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Izolda Trakhtenberg and I are sharing the importance of mindfulness as a way to tap back into your creativity and we provide actionable steps you can take right now to have a more creative approach to life.

Izolda and I cover the following topics:

What mindfulness is...and isn't.
What it means to be creative and to lend your ideas and voice to the world
Encouragement to dream, create, and share your ideas with the world because you truly never know the ripple effect you will have.
How innovation isn't just about the latest fad. It's about creating and collaborating mindfully.
A special framework to help us all embrace our worth and our willingness to step into our own creative genius

Mindfulness is actually a form of mental decluttering; when we clear our minds and let thoughts and emotions flow, we're in the best state to be creative and productive.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH IZOLDA TRAKHTENBERG:

Read Izolda’s Books

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Episode 30

Episode 31

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Help Yourself by Helping Others with Jake Doherty

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0400

“I realized that I wasn’t alone; there were so many people that were suffering and I wanted to do something that could help.” This quote sums up episode 46 of The Positively Living Podcast where my guest, Jake Doherty, and I are discussing the importance of pivoting in times of stress and sharing actionable steps you can take right now to make an impact on your life by helping others.

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

Jake Doherty and I cover the following topics:

How Jake went from not knowing how he was going to put food on the table for his family in the face of the pandemic to being able to help chefs put food on the table for their families as well as teaching others to quite literally do the same.
Bringing people together from all over the world to cook with Deri Dari and how this company is more than just cooking; its culture and community.
What’s next to come for Jake’s business: teaching kids to cook and develop the skills they will carry with them throughout their lives.
The tear-jerking story that is the heart behind Deri Dari and the personal stories of the chefs they help.

Once you have a taste of that feeling when you extend your hand to someone else and give, it just fills your heart.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH JAKE DOHERTY:

Website- Deri Dari

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Episode 10 of the Positively Living Podcast

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Episode 14 of the Positively Living Podcast

Episode 29 of the Positively Living Podcast

Episode 30 of the Positively Living Podcast

Episode 33 of the Positively Living Podcast

Slack App

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Free Up Your Biz through Funnels with Megan Bingham

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0400

Facebook- Digital Product Female Entrepreneurs Group

So many women start their business seeking freedom and then find themselves being slaves to their own businesses and lose sight of why they even started in the first place. That’s why episode 45 of The Positively Living Podcast is about freeing up your business through funnels!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Megan Bingham is sharing the importance of leveraging your time and effort and actionable steps you can take right now to create group coaching and funnels based on your one on one coaching business.

Megan Bingham and I cover the following topics:

What time freedom means to an entrepreneur and as a parent.
The distinction between work-life harmony and work-life balance (and why it matters)
All things funnels -- busting myths, simplifying the over complex thought process, behind them, and more. More complex does not equal more value.
The shift you will notice when you gear your marketing to hold value in connecting with people instead of making a sale.
Understanding how the “value ladder” works and using it to naturally guide the right customers to your elevated service.

The goal isn’t to have everyone work with you. Funnels based on the value ladder help you serve everyone the right way, allowing you to find just the right one-to-one (elevate) clients. Those are the ones who truly appreciate you and show up like you show up, and it’s magic when you work together. That’s the goal.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH MEGAN BINGHAM :

Podcast: The Burnout Cure for Mamas

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Episode 43 - The Softer Side of Sales with Renee Hribar

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The E Myth by Michael Gerber

Episode 31 - Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Schlabach

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Ethical Marketing Rebellion with Dr. Michelle Mazur

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0400

What is an ethical marketing rebellion? It’s my way to describe taking a stand against marketing that disrespects consumers and damages businesses. That’s why episode 44 of The Positively Living Podcast is about Ethical Marketing!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Dr. Michelle Mazur and I are sharing the importance of using ethical marketing over bro marketing in your business and actionable steps you can take right now to establish your core values and principles to establish your own business philosophy.

Dr. Michelle Mazur and I cover the following topics:

Using the 3 Word Rebellion Playbook to set your own business philosophy and make business decisions that are in alignment with your own ethics and values.
What bro marketing is and how ethical marketing can be a solution.
Why creating a message is so important when it comes to your marketing.
Encouraging your customers and clients to make informed, rational, and well-thought-out decisions when it comes to their purchases.

The key is figuring out what you stand for and creating messaging that puts that out into the world. This will become your filter when it comes to every single one of your marketing and sales activities in your business.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH DR. MICHELLE MAZUR:

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3 Word Rebellion Playbook

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Seven and a Half Lessons About the Brain (Lisa Feldman)

Ep. 31 of Positively Living Podcast: Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Schlabach

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

The Softer Side of Sales with Renee Hribar

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Do you loathe the sales part of being in business? Have you ever found it difficult to sell your services? That’s why episode 43 of The Positively Living Podcast is about selling as a woman in business!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Renee Hribar and I are sharing the softer side of sales and actionable steps you can take right now to feel good about selling.

Renee and I cover the following topics:

The focus on relationship building and how it’s not always a sale that happens or that benefits us
The Three C’s — clients, connectors, or collaborators and why they matter
How our money mindset informs our sales approach
How overthinking and getting too far ahead of ourselves trips us up

This episode is especially helpful if you are an entrepreneur who has struggled with selling, but you’ll realize much of what we discuss today is life advice.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH RENEE HRIBAR:

Listen to her Podcast

Work with Renee!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Episode 16 Self Care as a Business Strategy with Stacie Walker

Episode 18 Declutter through Delegation with Liz August

Episode 20 The 5Gs of Working from Home with Kimberly Crossland

Episode 30 Feel the Fear, Do it Anyway with Raven Waterman

Episode 31 Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Schlabach

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 &

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Work Smarter Not Harder with Loubna Zarrou

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Episode from Entrepreneurs Sushi Club Podcast

Although the phrase “work smarter, not harder” is easy to remember and sounds appealing, it still seems as though “work hard” is the one that secretly wins out. That’s why episode 42 of The Positively Living Podcast is about working smarter and not harder!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Loubna Zarrou and I are sharing the importance of working smarter and working happier, which embraces the Positively Productive mantra: do less, live more, breathe easier.

Loubna and I cover the following topics:

Defining what you really want and what truly matters to you
Understanding our minds and how to make them work for us (instead of against us) including how to handle distractions
What we can learn from the science of happiness
What it means to be more productive by working smarter

We are made to believe we must fill up the spaces of our lives -- from our cabinets to our calendars -- and I want to encourage you to start thinking differently.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

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CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Chronotype Quiz

Episode 1: The #1 Tool to Achieve Productivity

Episode 8: Toxic Positivity with Valerie Friedlander

Episode 41: Intentional Happiness with Julie Leonard

Carol Dweck TED talk

Mindset Carol S. Dweck

A Man’s Search for Meaning, Victor Frankel

*Affiliate Disclaimer*

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

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Intentional Happiness with Julie Leonard

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Have you ever said, “I just want to be happy.”? I think we all have in one way or another. That’s why episode 41 of The Positively Living Podcast is about intentionally achieving happiness!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Julie Leonard and I are sharing what happiness truly means to us and the choices we have to welcome it into our lives.

Julie and I cover the following topics:

What we need to know first: what makes us UNhappy in our lives.
Julie’s experiences growing up not being allowed to express her feelings with her family.
The steps you can take today to embrace happiness in your life
Why you are more than justified to find the FUN and add it in, unapologetically
How seeking happiness is not about ignoring the struggles, but rather about finding balance.

This episode is an encouraging and enlightening look at what happiness truly means to us and the choices we have to welcome it into our lives.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH JULIE LEONARD:

Buy her Book

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The How of Happiness

How we Grow through Grief with Katie Rossler

Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Request this Toolkit and other free resources at the Resources Page.

Forgiveness and Resilience with R. Patryce Bryant

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0500

I have come to learn that forgiveness is really for ourselves and is a healthy way to cast off toxic emotions, allowing us to move on and to grow. That’s why episode 40 of The Positively Living Podcast is about forgiveness and resilience.

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, R. Patryce Bryant and I shed light on self-forgiveness and how turning it inward helps us build resilience.

Patryce and I cover the following topics:

The conflicting voices in your head (the cheerleader and the mean girl) and how habits and purpose can combine to help you overpower the negative one
How sometimes you need assistance to truly embody forgiveness and cast off those toxic emotions
How to find and keep your peace, your strength, and your power
Aspects of purpose, choice, habits, reflection, celebration, seeking help, and so much more

Today's episode is a bit like a Life coaching 101 class where the homework is optional (but recommended).

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH R. PATRYCE BRYANT:

While We Wait

Youtube

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson

The Art of War by Sun Tzu

Episode 10 Building resilience through Self Care with Gillian Behnke

Episode 23 Pay Attention, Find Your Purpose with Michelle Perry

Episode 29 Trauma-Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 &

Give Yourself More Through Movement with K. Aleisha Fetters

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 28: Give Yourself More with Georgie Fear

Embracing movement as true self-care hinges on seeking it for your own benefit. This means doing it for the right reasons. That’s why episode 39 of The Positively Living Podcast is about giving ourselves MORE through movement!

This episode of The Positively Living Podcast with K. Aleisha Fetters is going to help you evaluate your current relationship with exercise and movement so you can rediscover the joy in it that we often lose through unrealistic fitness goals.

Aleisha and I cover the following topics:

The benefits of movement: how it can lift our spirits, help our balance and coordination, and make us feel proud, confident, and focused.
How much exercise and intentional movement you need each day (it’s not as much as you might think!)
The way to achieve the fitness level you want without ever going to a gym.
How simple it can be to integrate movement into your day.

Remember, exercise should make you feel better so make sure you are listening to your body as you strive to have more movement in your day.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH K. ALEISHA FETTERS:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Give Yourself More (Fear/Fetters)

Trainerize

Dance Song Playlist Volume 1 & Volume 2
Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Finding Your Fun and Fabulous Self with Lauretta Nkwocha

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 00:00:00 -0500

What does it mean to find your “fabulous”? It means finding your passion and intentionally and strategically structuring your life in a way that drives you toward it. That’s why episode 38 of The Positively Living Podcast is about finding your fun and fabulous self!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Lauretta Nkwocha and I have a ton of FUN exploring it and exploring how to claim it.

Lauretta is so inspiring with the way she sets up her week for all the things she loves, but it’s so much more than that. It goes beyond productivity and into purpose.

Lauretta and I cover the following topics:

Ways that you can protect the light within when there are layers that are blocking you from being the most fabulous and fun you
How it’s more important than ever to take care of your mental health and the mental health of the people you care about
Moving beyond fear and regret
All the technical things you might expect about being productive, like lists and schedules.
Gratitude and how it grounds us and pushes us to be our best selves!

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH LAURETTA NKWOCHA:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Estate Organizing with Eileen Moynahan

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Do you think that estate planning is important? A priority? I think we can all agree it’s necessary, but the follow-through isn’t there. That’s why episode 37 of the Positively Living Podcast is about estate organizing!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Eileen Moynahan and I are sharing the importance of Estate planning and how the effects of it go beyond the paperwork. We also discuss actionable steps you can take to have these hard conversations with your loved ones.

Eileen and I cover the following topics:

How having those awkward conversations can make a huge difference in preparing for the future
Significant stories from our own lives that offer examples of how planning changes your experience
Several ways to start estate planning including finding an estate attorney, signing documents such as health care proxies, or even exploring options like a burial trust
The opportunities we have now to find out preferences and figure out ways to honor legacies (a huge part of healing and a gift you give yourself and your family).

If you are ready to do some estate planning...whether for yourself or to help your loved ones but you’re feeling uncertain, I recommend contacting Eileen directly. She offers consulting sessions and can provide you with many resources.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH EILEEN MOYNAHAN:

After the Funeral by Eileen Moynahan

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

After the Funeral (Eileen's book)

My Life Packet life-and-legacy planning system (Binder | Digital)

Episode 14 - How We Grow Through Grief with Katie Rössler

Episode 29 - Trauma-Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Episode 7 - The Impact of Stress

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Organizing for Students with Tiffany Blassingame

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0500

We could all use guidance, encouragement, and tips for students to work more productively in a remote environment. That’s why episode 36 of The Positively Living Podcast is about organizing for students!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Tiffany Blassingame and I are sharing the importance of organizing and provide time management strategies to help busy adults and their families develop a more organized approach to home, work, and school.

Tiffany and I cover the following topics:

Tried and true productivity and organizing tips that will help you make the most of your work-from-home efforts
How to focus on creating systems that work for you and your home
Not every school struggle is academic, a critical reminder that there is more at play than the schoolwork itself
How the executive function of the brain develops and how that relates to children’s coaching and organizing needs

Today’s episode offers many options for you to try, but please know that trying your best is the most important thing for everyone involved.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH TIFFANY BLASSINGAME:

FREE online course Top 3 Tips Organizing Student

Work with Tiffany!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Ep 1 - The #1 Tool to Achieve Productivity

Ep 3 - Four Steps for Effective Time Management

Ep 20 - The 5 Gs of Working from Home

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Organize a Space You Love with Crystal Nerpel

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Have you ever uttered the phrase “If I could just get organized”? Or maybe you’ve simply described yourself as being overwhelmed or lacking focus when you enter a room? That’s why episode 35 of The Positively Living Podcast is about organizing a space you love!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Crystal Nerpal and I share the importance of organizing your space so that it best suits you and we offer actionable steps you can take right now to declutter.

Crystal Nerpal and I cover the following topics in this episode:

The symptoms you experience of being out of alignment with your values and how clutter plays into that
How important it is to recognize both how you currently feel and how you want to feel when you walk into your home
Ways to close that gap and love the home you have right now by decluttering and organizing
The place to start no matter your challenge (spoiler alert: it’s values

If you are clear in what you value and the purpose of the space you’re working on, you will make your way through it to the place where you breathe easier and it feels right. The key is doing it in a way that makes sense for you.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH CRYSTAL NERPAL:

Positively Productive Free Resources

Loving Your Home Club

Work with Crystal!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The Desire Map: A Guide to Creating Goals with Soul (Danille LaPorte)

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

My Caregiving and Clutter Story

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 00:00:00 -0500

Ep 2 Declutter your Life with the SIMPLE System

Today I share with you my story of caregiving, clutter, and coaching. Episode 34 of The Positively Living Podcast is about life lessons learned since before I began Positively Productive Systems!

If you’re ready to reduce stress and overwhelm by doing less, yet achieving more, I invite you to join me for a Strategy Session: a heart-opening, mind-expanding, goal-setting session that gives you the clarity needed to determine your best steps forward. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/strategy and be sure to use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing:

Why Declutter is the first step toward reducing overwhelm, getting organized, and making changes
The healing I experienced from simplifying and organizing (and my desire to help others heal too)
The 5 types of clutter (physical, mental, digital, information, and tasks)
How clutter can show up in ways you might not expect (and how what you expect to be clutter might not be)

I’d love to know which type of clutter challenges you the most and what kinds of clutter or organizing episodes you’d like to hear. Click one of the social media links below or message me through my website.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Ep 6 Sorting out Life with Super Organizer James Lott Jr.

Ep 17 How Simplicity Sparks Joy with Tim Lucier

Ep 18 Declutter through Delegation with Liz August

Ep 22 Clutter Free Gift Giving with Katie Zurawski

Ep 8 Toxic Positivity with Valerie Friedlaner

Ep 29 Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Embracing Change with Nicole Mixdorf

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Understanding and embracing change -- whether it was your idea to change or not -- will help you handle it better and make the most of it. That’s why episode 33 of The Positively Living Podcast is about embracing change!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Nicole Mixdorf and I provide actionable steps you can take right now to manage unplanned change and take back your power. Nicole and I cover the following topics:

Different types of change and the responses to them
How to shift our response to see change as an opportunity
How to seek out what works and what’s good in what is happening
The resistance we feel and why, our stress responses, and how fear plays into that

Nicole and I reflect on change in light of everything we’ve experienced in 2020, but what we talk about applies to any season of change in your life, whether you initiated it or not.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH NICOLE MIXDORF:

The Impact of Stress and how to Manage it for Good

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Podcast episodes:

Stress Relief through Self-acceptance with Jane Tornatore

Feel the Fear, Do It Anyway with Raven Waterman

Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Schlabach

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Podcasting and Pivoting with Alesia Galati

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 00:00:00 -0500

If you are thinking of making a change and charting your own course, this episode will inspire you. Episode 32 of The Positively Living Podcast is packed with practical tips and the encouragement you need to share your voice with the world!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Alesia Galati and I are sharing the impact a podcast can have and actionable steps you can take right now to get started on your own podcast journey. Alesia and I cover the following topics:

Ways we adjust and shift when life throws us off
The discoveries we’ve made about the impact of podcasting and the “why” behind what we do
The most important elements of starting a podcast (Podcasting 101 from a pro!)
How important it is to define what podcast success looks like for yourself

When we are isolated, which happened extensively in 2020, we crave connection and company. Podcasting answers that need.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH ALESIA GALATI:

Podcast Launch Training

Work with Alesia!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Alesia’s Blog

Episode 6 - Sorting Out Life with Super Organizer, James Lott, Jr.

Episode 31- Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Schlabach

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Authenticity in Life and Business with Mallory Schlabach

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Episode 8 Toxic Positivity with Valerie Friedlander

The concept of being authentic and true to yourself is held high; but in a world where we’re rewarded for fitting in, it’s not always easy to do that. That’s why episode 31 of The Positively Living Podcast is about authenticity in life and business!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Mallory Schlabach and I are sharing the importance of being truly authentic in your marketing and ways you can show up authentically without airing everything that happens in your life. Mallory and I cover the following topics:

What does it mean to be authentic and why do we want to be
Ways to start being more authentic in your business and life
Why you respond the way you do and what actions make you feel off
How authentic is “too authentic” and how much do we share with others

I highly recommend you check out Mallory’s Marketing Magic Podcast and join her on social media. Her favorite place to be is Facebook and she hosts an amazing group for women in business called The Girlboss Club. If you are a woman in business, come join us. You won’t be disappointed.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH MALLORY SCHLABACH:

Facebook Group

Marketing Magic Podcast

Work with Mallory!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Marketing Magic Podcast Episode #1

Cave of Swallows - Wikipedia

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Feel the Fear, Do It Anyway with Raven Waterman

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Fear is a natural part of our lives. But when it gets in the way of living, of pursuing our dreams, that’s when we need to make a change. Fear is a powerful paralyzer that needn’t be. It’s time to change how we see it and learn to work with it, not against it. That’s why episode 30 of The Positively Living Podcast is about doing things despite feeling fear!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Raven Waterman and I discuss the importance of feeling your fear and share actionable steps you can take right now to move through the fear to the life you want. Raven and I cover the following topics:

How fear manifests itself in many ways and seems to come up most for professional women as self-doubt
The importance of understanding that fear is not all bad, but when it blocks us from moving forward, we are giving it unnecessary power
The different responses to fear as they relate to therapy versus coaching
The importance of a varied support network

As you listen to our conversation, remember this...fear is normal. We all have it. We are not alone in this. The key is to manage it and feel it, not feed it.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH RAVEN WATERMAN:

Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Work with Raven!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

What It Means to Live a Trauma Informed Life with Mallory Jackson

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0500

When we become aware of why we do what we do, we find the steps to heal and grow. I believe this is why we need to understand trauma — what it is, from both a clinical and humanitarian perspective, and that we all have it, to some degree. That’s why episode 29 of The Positively Living Podcast is about living a trauma informed life.

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Mallory Jackson and I are sharing perspectives, definitions, and descriptions to help support our wellbeing and resilience. Mallory Jackson and I cover the following topics:

What trauma is, the causes of it, the responses, and the treatments
The connection between trauma, shame, grief, rage, and stress
How we can make huge shifts and use resiliency to change trauma’s effect
Ways we can use the same brain response we experience from trauma to create a powerful impact that aids in our resiliency and happiness

If you are in need of telehealth connections, please reach out to me and I will find recommendations.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

MALLORY JACKSON teaches at SUNY Jefferson Community College

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find links to books/gear on Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The Body keeps the Score by Bessel VanDerKolk

It didn’t start with you by Mark Wolynn

Maybe you should talk to someone by Lori Gottleib

Authors: Melody Beattie, Anne Lamott, Brene Brown

Episode 4 The Power of Gratitude

Episode 7 The Impact of Stress and How to Manage it for Good

Episode 14 How We Grow through Grief with Katie Rossler

Episode 23 Pay Attention, Find Your Purpose with Michelle Perry

Give Yourself More with Georgie Fear

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0500

What if you stopped trying to subtract from your life and started adding to it? What if your priority wasn’t on shrinking portions, cutting carbs, or burning calories, but giving yourself MORE—more of what you need to thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally? That’s what episode 28 of The Positively Living Podcast is all about. You’ll learn to live more fully, love your body, and take up the space you deserve, mentally, emotionally, and physically.

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Georgie Fear and I are sharing the importance of prioritizing yourself along with others and actionable steps you can take right now to give yourself more in key areas of your life. Georgie Fear and I cover the following topics during this episode:

How giving yourself MORE can honor your desire and need to lose weight but to do it in a non-diet way
Where we tend to constantly focus on LESS and how that works against us
The connections between binge eating and clutter
The six areas from Georgie’s book where we can give ourselves more--Body love, Movement, Emotions, Fueling, Pleasure, and Rest

The key player in all of this is love. When you love someone, you want to do what’s best for them. When we give ourselves more and embrace more of who we are, that self-directed love can lead us to our goals.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH GEORGIE FEAR:

Buy the Book - Give Yourself MORE

Nutrition Loft

Georgie Fear Website

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Give Yourself More (Georgie's + Aleisha's book)

Funny “News” Source - The Onion

The Joy List

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Declutter Toys with Danielle Bettman

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Gift giving is an important part of many cultures and holidays; and although many of us are working hard to shift how we give gifts by focusing on consumables and experiences, toys for little ones remain one of the biggest clutter challenges. That’s why episode 27 of The Positively Living Podcast is about decluttering toys!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Danielle Bettman and I uncover the worries of parents wanting to declutter toys and provide actionable steps you can take right now to manage the toys. Danielle and I cover the following topics:

The reason we both believe in decluttering and how we both see the overwhelm in clients comes from having “too much”
The physical side of decluttering as relates to children’s toys, but as you’ll see, mental and emotional decluttering are never far away
How understanding the way your family works best and what both you and your space can handle is a key component to having the right amount of things in your environment
The three biggest reasons why parents are stressed out with excess toys

If you are looking to buy toys this holiday season and would like more specific recommendations, be sure to visit Danielle’s site parentingwholeheartedly.com for her Christmas Gift guide, which is categorized and organized to make it easy to see her suggestions.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH DANIELLE BETTMAN:

Parenting Wholeheartedly

Calm your BIG Emotions Workbook

Failing Motherhood Podcast

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Five Love Languages

Episode 2 Declutter your Life with the SIMPLE System

Episode 6 Sorting Out Life with Super Organizer James Lott Jr.

Episode 17 How Simplicity Sparks Joy with Tim Lucier

Episode 18 Declutter through Delegation with Liz August.

Episode 22 Clutter Free Gift Giving with Katie Zurawski

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Meal Planning Made Easy with Marie Fiebach

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Meal planning is a popular topic for many different kinds of people and for as many different reasons. It saves money and time, something I'm pretty sure everyone wants, and it can make a huge difference in your health as well. That’s why episode 26 of the Positively Living Podcast is about Meal Planning for Everyday and the Holidays!

In this episode of the Positively Living Podcast, Marie Fiebach is sharing the importance of meal planning and actionable steps you can take right now to plan out a meal schedule that actually fits your lifestyle. Marie and I cover the following topics:

Day-to-day meal planning that will work for any family and it’s a one-size-fits-all
How energy management ties into meal planning
The benefits of meal planning beyond the obvious ones like saving money and avoiding the drive-through
How to apply these concepts to holiday meal planning so you can reduce stress even further

By putting the meal planning decisions ahead of time, such as at the beginning of the week, you give yourself so much more space...to think, create, relax, and breathe.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH MARIE FIEBACH:

Feed Your Family Tonight

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Episode 21 Capsule Wardrobe Stories and Secrets

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Episode 22 Clutter-free Gift Giving

Carol Cox's Speaking Your Brand Podcast

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Ditch the Diet and Eat Intuitively with Megan Hadley

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 00:00:00 -0500

Biggest Loser Weight Loss Study

We all want to be healthy, but is dieting the answer? Diets have a high failure rate, and many side effects, not the least of which is an increase in stress response and a decrease in quality of life. That’s why episode 25 of The Positively Living Podcast is about ditching diet culture and eating intuitively!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Megan Hadley and I are sharing the importance of body positivity, curiosity, and self-awareness as it relates to the weight loss world we live in today. In our conversation, we cover:

Dieting: what it is, why it doesn’t work, and what you can do about it.
How everything about diet culture is asking us to be disconnected from what we need and how we can care for ourselves best.
The debunked myths that weight correlates to health and how behaviors are the real indicators.
Studies and data that may surprise you about BMI indicators and one of the most frustrating things for all dieters: that weight loss is a predictor of weight gain.

I find that a support system to go with trusted resources will help you most. If you are ready to ditch the diet, whether you’re dipping your toe in the pool or diving into the deep end head first, I highly recommend following Megan on social media and through her website simplenutritioncounseling.com.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH MEGAN HADLEY:

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Body Respect Book

Intuitive Eating

Gifts of Imperfection - Brene Brown

Paprika app

The Impact of Stress and How to Manage it for Good - Episode 7

Building resilience through Self Care with Gillian Behnke - Episode 10

Self Care as a Business Strategy with Stacie Walker - Episode 16

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Understanding Chronic Illness and Lyme Disease with Martha Garland

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0400

No matter what challenges we go through in life, I believe there is always a way to not only manage them, but to find a way to thrive. In order to do that, we need to understand what we’re dealing with and what recourse we have. That’s why episode 24 of The Positively Living Podcast is about handling and coping with chronic illness.

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Martha Garland and I are sharing the importance of seeking out the right kind of support and actionable steps you can take right now to support yourself or a loved one who has a chronic illness. Martha and I cover the following topics:

What it means to live with chronic illness, day in and day out
Martha’s encouragement for everyone who feels alone and helpless in their illness, there are just as many opportunities to restore their health and life
How to apply more holistic approaches to chronic illness
The importance of listening to your body and trusting yourself in the journey of exploring what’s best for you.

This is a topic that is so very personal. If you have resources or suggestions or you found this especially helpful and encouraging, I’d love to know.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH MARTHA GARLAND:

Stress Relief through Self Acceptance with Jane Tornatore - Ep 13

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Stress Less Checklist

Fit and Fun Family Habits with Dr. Orlena Kerek - Ep 19

Horowitz Questionnaire

Tara Brach Podcast

Under Our Skin (Movie)

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Pay Attention, Find Your Purpose with Michelle Perry

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Purpose is another buzzword with big meaning. There are so many workshops and workbooks intended to help you “Live Your Purpose” and I think that throws us because it makes us feel as though we’re doing something wrong if we are NOT living our purpose, which is hard because it feels like it takes a LOT of work to figure it out. That’s why episode 23 of The Positively Living Podcast is about finding your purpose by paying attention!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Michelle Perry is sharing the importance of paying attention and actionable steps you can take right now to discover your purpose.

Michelle and I cover:

How it doesn’t take much to live your purpose by making a difference in someone else’s life
How resilient you can be when you can connect meaning to what you’re experiencing -- even if it’s a true hardship.
That you show up -- with energy and enthusiasm and focus -- when you feel as though you are doing what you are meant to do.
How living your purpose is truly a process...of paying attention and acting on that.

You’ll find out the #1 thing you need to do today to figure out your purpose, which -- spoiler alert -- involves stopping and paying attention.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH MICHELLE PERRY:

Successful Diligence Podcast

School

Episode 2 Declutter your Life with the SIMPLE System

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Getting Things Done (David Allen)

Deep Work (Cal Newport)

Atomic Habits (James Clear)

The Big Leap (Gay Hendricks)

Episode 18 Declutter through Delegation with Liz August

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Clutter Free Gift Giving with Katie Zurwaski

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0400

With the holidays fast approaching, gift-giving will be on the rise, along with the challenges of clutter and debt. An alternative? Giving experiences as gifts. The benefits go beyond reducing clutter: traditions, memories, and relationships all benefit from more intentional gift-giving. That’s why episode 22 of The Positively Living Podcast is about clutter-free gift giving!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Katie Zurwaski is sharing the importance of giving gifts that don’t clutter the recipient’s home and actionable steps you can take right now to start planning the gifts you’ll be giving for holidays and birthdays. Katie Zurwaski and I cover the following topics:

How gift giving requires some decluttering of your mindset around what it means to give gifts
Concrete examples of gift ideas that will work this year and beyond
How we have an opportunity as gift-givers to making real connections with others
How a system like the Five Love Languages can help you understand the receiver and avoid wasted time, energy, and money

Many people want a simpler way to celebrate the holiday season or loved ones and events throughout the year but they don’t want to give up the impact...what makes it special. Katie and I know it’s possible to have both and today we’re helping you with some first steps.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
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5 Love Languages

Santa’s Bag App

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Capsule Wardrobe Stories and Secrets with Hanna Donnelly

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 00:00:00 -0400

How much do you think about the clothes you have? How much time do you take when choosing what to wear each day? Do you have a specific wardrobe or is it more of a sprawling selection of items? I’ve had both, but find myself more organized and productive when I have a specific collection. That’s why episode 21 of The Positively Living Podcast is about capsule wardrobes!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Hanna Donnelly is sharing the importance of a curated capsule collection so you can spend your time where it matters most. She also shares actionable steps you can take right now to create a capsule wardrobe that fits your life.

Hanna Donnelly and I cover the following topics:

What our style means for us and how clothes connect to confidence and productivity
Simple steps you can take today to turn your wardrobe around
The benefits of spending some time now curating your clothing and creating a capsule that fits your life
Fun and inspiring stories about Hanna’s grandmother -- the woman who embraced the fashion frontier and let her style speak for her

Sometimes fashion can seem complicated, but today we break it down because it all comes back to how you feel...or how you want to feel...and you can do that through your wardrobe.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

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Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

The 5Gs of Working from Home with Kimberly Crossland

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Facebook Page | Facebook Group

Are you working from home right now? Or have you considered it? As I record this podcast in September 2020, working from home has become more prevalent than ever in light of COVID-19 quarantine measures and continued restrictions. That’s why episode 20 of The Positively Living Podcast is about navigating the ins and outs of working from home!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Kimberly Crossland is sharing the truth of what it’s like to work from home with small children and actionable steps you can take right now to be efficient and to enjoy doing so, regardless of your challenges. Kimberly and I cover the following topics:

Kimberly’s 5 G’s of working from home
Debunking the need to multitask
Her “museum” metaphor — she describes in detail how to make your life and purpose similar to a museum and the benefits of doing so.

If you work from home, I’d love to hear from you. What have your greatest challenges been? What are your favorite tips to make the most of it? Do you love it or are you made for the commute? Send me a message.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways.

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Enthusiasm Study from Harvard Business Review

Ingrid Fetell Lee’s TED Talk

Carl Dwecks TED Talk

Keri Walsh

Only 10s 2.0 by Mark Silverman

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Fit and Fun Family Habits with Dr. Orlena Kerek

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0400

None of us has “arrived” in our wellness journey—it’s a life-long process. Support is key for success when you are still searching for answers for your own wellness and wanting ways to inspire your family. That’s why Episode 19 of the Positively Living Podcast with Dr. Orlena Kerek is about creating fit and fun habits as a family!

In this episode, Dr. Orlena Kerek is sharing the importance of family habits and having fun. She provides simple, yet effective advice for your family mindset. Dr. Orlena and I cover:

The three key points of overlap with her approach and mine as coaches, even though we’re working with different topics.
Why our brains do what they do and how we can work with them to become fit and fabulous!
Her Four Pillars of wellness: nutrition, sleep, exercise, and emotions
How important it is to understand ourselves as we strive toward healthier habits.

Without self-awareness, we often doom ourselves to repeat things that don’t work. With it, we can create effective habits that lead to living well “without having to think about it”.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH DR ORLENA KEREK:

Resource - Healthy Easy Food System

Fit and Fabulous Podcast

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(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Declutter through Delegation with Liz August

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0400

If you’ve tried to delegate but struggled with the results or considered delegating but weren’t sure how to or what to or why then this episode is for you. I’ve worked with clients on delegating and I understand how it can be a struggle and also how it can make all the difference. That’s why episode 18 of The Positively Living Podcast is about decluttering through delegation!

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

In this episode, my guest, Liz August, is sharing the importance of decluttering through delegation and actionable steps you can take right now to simplify your life and address the struggles with delegation. Liz and I cover the following topics:

How being selective and structured can benefit us personally and professionally.
The actions that helped her take back precious life moments she was missing and allowed her to live in her zone of genius.
How Liz consciously codesigned a life with her husband.
How she declutters and delegates in her own life.
The three most common reasons people struggle to delegate: Fear, Habit, and Explanation.

Our conversation today is also an important reminder that delegation isn’t only for business, and it isn’t only for those who aren’t able. It’s often those who are talented and capable who need it the most and it’s one of the best ways to create a simple and satisfying life.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

“Getting Things Done” by David Allen

“The Big Leap” by Gay Hendricks

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

How Simplicity Sparks Joy with Tim Lucier

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Gratitude Episode 4 - Positively Living Podcast

Marie Kondo’s Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up is over a decade old and still a polarizing point in the organizing world. Some found her system life changing, some thought it fell flat. I can see both sides and believe there are some aspects that need clarifying. That’s why episode 17 of The Positively Living Podcast is about how simplicity sparks joy!

If you’re a DIY dynamo looking for simplicity and productivity support, you’ll find it in the Positively Productive Resources Vault. It’s packed with the worksheets, checklists, workbooks, and recordings I use with clients including my Declutter + Destress workbook. Go to www.positivelyproductive.com/vault and use the promo code PODCAST for a special listener discount.

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Tim Lucier, a Certified Konmari Consultant, is shedding light on Marie Kondo’s approach and highlighting its elements of simplicity and gratitude. Tim and I cover the following topics:

Tim’s story and why Marie Kondo’s system works for him
What Spark Joy means to him (and it’s really good!)
How seeking simplicity can help you assess aspects of your life
How Marie Kondo teaches us to honor what we own
What steps you can take right now to start decluttering
How to add habits to be incredibly productive

I think you’ll enjoy a fresh perspective on a system that’s been around for almost a decade and I hope you’ll be inspired to find a way for simplicity to spark joy in your life.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Decluter Episode 2 - Positively Living Podcast

“Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” Marie Kondo

“Atomic Habits” James Clear

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Self-care as a Business Strategy with Stacie Walker

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Self-care isn’t simply a luxury or pampering, but rather a critical business strategy. That’s why episode 16 of The Positively Living Podcast is about self-care!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Stacie Walker is sharing the importance of self-care and actionable steps you can take right now to include self-care as a strategy in your business and life. Stacie Walker and I cover the following topics:

What self-care really means, distinguishing pampering from true self-care
That true self-care is essential for living our best lives and especially important when you add on a business.
How alignment plays a big part in how we achieve our goals and how we need to ask for help and seek support

I am so inspired by Stacie Walker and I know you will be too. She has gone from almost losing her life to creating one that she absolutely loves and showing you how you can do the same.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH STACIE WALKER:

Elite Society of Ambitious Women (Facebook Group)

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Positively Living - Productivity (Episode 1)

“Deep Work” by Cal Newport

“Atomic Habits” by James Clear

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

How to Harness Habits to Achieve Your Goals

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Habits are a building block of the life we lead, whether we realize it or not. And it’s likely we don’t realize it. That’s why episode 15 of The Positively Living Podcast is about Habits!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing what “good” or “bad” habits are and actionable small steps you can take right now to establish new habits. I cover the following topics:

What habits are and how they relate to decluttering
How our brains “chunk” information together to help us make decisions
The framework for establishing new habits as described by two of my favorite habits authors
How to create new habits and break old ones using my S.T.E.P. method

With the power of habits, we can automate good choices and we can help ourselves want to make good choices because we’ve done them repeatedly and teach ourselves the benefit that way.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Power of Habit (Duhigg)

Smarter, Faster, Better (Duhigg)

Atomic Habits (James Clear)

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

How We Grow through Grief with Katie Rössler

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Episode 8 - Toxic Positivity

Grief has no timeline. It has no end date. It isn’t linear. It lives within us, sometimes quietly and sometimes manifesting itself at unexpected times and with unexpected intensity. Learning to live with it and embrace it is critical to our well-being. That’s why episode 14 of The Positively Living Podcast is about grief.

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Katie Rössler is sharing the importance of focusing as a way to grow and offers actionable steps you can take right now to deal with grief. Katie Rössler and I cover the following topics:

Waves of grief come from many life experiences, not only death.
We are taught to run from grief and to cope in ways that don’t serve us.
Katie’s specific, actionable advice for when you are dealing with grief.
Society's desire to “move past” grief instead of sitting in the feelings and learning from them.

I am overwhelmed with gratitude for all she shared about this subject near and dear to my heart. I know you’ll love hearing Katie’s stories and words of encouragement and I’m looking forward to your feedback.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

10 Steps to Stress Less Checklist

Book - On Grief and Grieving

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Stress Relief through Self-acceptance with Jane Tornatore

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Why is it so hard to accept ourselves? Why do we struggle so hard to treat ourselves with the love and compassion that we would treat a dear friend? Finding out the challenges and figuring out how to change that is important for our wellbeing in so many ways. That’s why episode 13 of The Positively Living Podcast with Jane Tornatore is about relieving stress through self-acceptance!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Jane Tornatore and I are sharing the importance of addressing the strange tendencies that keep us stuck and stressed and actionable steps you can take right now to start practicing gratitude and experiencing self- acceptance today. We cover the following topics:

There is power in choosing...choosing how we perceive our feelings
How we embrace habits like gratitude to create new neural pathways in our brain
The way we speak to ourselves has more impact than we realize...words truly matter
Jane’s dedicated list of words she wants to ban from our language

I think we can all agree that kindness matters. And I firmly believe we need to start with being kind to ourselves first. The benefits are far-reaching, and with the right initial effort, self-acceptance can become an automatic part of your life that not only serves you but others too.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

Could you use some support? Ready for a quick win and to try coaching with Lisa? The Productivity Boost session is a speed-round strategy that is highly effective for shifting a habit, quickly reviewing your weekly schedule, discussing productivity related tech and systems, and moving past decision hurdles for prioritizing. You'll walk away encouraged and inspired to take action! Go to https://www.positivelyproductive.com/plpboost for a very special listener discount!

CONNECT WITH JANE TORNATORE:

Website - FREE eBook toward the bottom of the page

Trailer - Positively Living Podcast

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Episode 4 (Gratitude) - Positively Living Podcast

Episode 7 (Stress) - Positively Living Podcast

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Busting Menopause Myths with Jacqueline Rose

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Menopause is a topic that needs clarifying and support. That’s why episode 12 of The Positively Living Podcast is about menopause and the changes that women experience throughout their lives!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Jacqueline Rose shares the myths surrounding menopause. She and I cover:

How important self-awareness is (which has been a repeat concept from other podcast episodes)
The three myths surrounding menopause and why they aren’t true
How the menopause journey includes much more than we realize and can impact women physically, emotionally, and cognitively.
That it’s possible to navigate this menopause time with ease and confidence.

It is so important that we come to understand and accept what hormone fluctuation can do to our bodies and I hope you are both educated and encouraged by Jacqueline’s take on it.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH JACQUELINE ROSE:

Doctor Appointment Checklist

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(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Meditation for Newbies: Why You Need It and How to Start

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Incorporating meditation into your life and doing it in a way that works best for you is effective for stress management and much more. That’s why episode 011 of The Positively Living Podcast is about meditation!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of meditation and actionable steps you can take right now to start implementing a meditation practice in your life. I cover the following topics:

Meditation's full potential to help the body calm and heal on a practical level.
How meditation allows your mind and body to settle into a state of balance.
Using meditation as a decluttering technique and its link to productivity and organizing.
What the “downside” to meditation really is.

Progress, not perfection is key here. And the good news is that you’ll benefit from each and every session, no matter how poorly you think your meditation time went.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

FREE Resource Library

Ten Percent Happier Podcast

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Chopra Center Meditation

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Building Resilience through Self Care with Gillian Behnke

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Self-care is a topic that is near and dear to my heart. I have spoken about it many times on podcasts, summits, and on social media, linking it to productivity and to energy management. That’s why episode 10 of The Positively Living Podcast is about how self-care creates resilience!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Gillian Behnke and I are sharing the importance of building a healthy foundation, identifying your personal priorities so you know what matters most, and establishing boundaries to protect those priorities. Gillian Behnke and I cover the following topics:

Gillian’s burnout story and the turning point that led her out of survival mode.
How the word “simplify” led her to make the changes she needed.
That learning to ask why we do what we do -- which is something we both love as questioners -- was a key component to uncomplicating her life at work and at home.

It’s hard to pick a favorite takeaway for me, but if I had to, I would say that selfcare can be so quick and so simple.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH GILLIAN BEHNKE:

Mom Camp: Around the Campfire (Podcast)

Mom Camp Life

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Joy List Download - Positively Productive Resources Library

Lisa Zawrotny on Mom Camp: Around the Campfire Podcast

10% Happier with Dan Harris

Glennon Doyle’s Book Untamed

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Motherhood and Money with Janice Pica-Scholl

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Money, Career and Motherhood Podcast

Money is consistently one of the biggest stressors and it can be difficult to have money conversations, for women especially. That’s why episode 09 of The Positively Living Podcast with Janice Pica-Scholl is about motherhood and money!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Janice Pica-Scholl and I share the importance of how we handle money conversations and offer actionable steps you can take right now to become more proactive financially, which will serve our families no matter what is happening in the world. We cover the following topics:

The four ways we interact with money: making it, managing it, growing and investing it, and our mindset and relationship with it
How viewing our financial situation at home as though we were running a business can help us reduce our family’s risk and take back our control
How to gain confidence and understanding about money, career, and business topics as they relate to motherhood and family
How empowering it is to recognize that there are areas where you need help and you don’t have to have all the answers

We urge you to take the time to view your finances and do so without guilt or shame. I know this is a stressful topic, which is why I wanted to cover it. I want you to know you are not alone and that we get it and are here to support you. It’s time to be proactive. Money is no longer something that happens to you - let it be something you make happen.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH JANICE PICA-SCHOLL:

Money Prepared Checklist

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Money Coaching Institute

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Toxic Positivity with Valerie Friedlander

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Toxic positivity is an excessive and ineffective overgeneralization of a happy and optimistic state. It takes away our permission to explore, to get messy, and most importantly to learn and to heal. All this from something considered positive. That’s why episode 08 of The Positively Living Podcast is about Toxic Positivity!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Valerie Friedlander and I are sharing the importance of reducing patterns of stress and anxiety and actionable steps you can take right now to overcome toxic positivity. We cover the following topics:

The excessive dose of positivity and why we as a society try to dole it out this way.
Cycles of change and how we can change confrontation to conversation.
How our perspective shapes us and how we see the world.

I hope you enjoy your time with Valerie as much as I have. Please be sure to find her online and download her free stress quiz, which is really a stress and personality quiz.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH VALERIE FRIEDLANDER:

Trailer Episode of Positively Living

Stress Management Quiz

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Motivation & Gratitude conversation

Book: When the Body Says No

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

The Impact of Stress and How to Manage it for Good

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0400

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of stress management and actionable steps you can take right now to manage your stress for good. I cover the following topics:

Two types of stress and three types of stressors.
My own experience with Eustress and Distress
The biological response to stress and the link to physical ailments
Tips for managing stress in your life and a free checklist to help you get started

When you become aware of what your stressors are and how they shift depending on what you do and what you think, you will become much more effective at managing your stress.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

10 Steps to Stress Less - Checklist

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Sorting Out Life with Super Organizer, James Lott, Jr.

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0400

What happens when two organizers and certified life coaches come together about leading with gratitude? This episode! That’s why episode 06 of The Positively Living Podcast with James Lott, Jr. is a candid and FUN conversation about organization and productivity!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, James Lott, Jr. and I are sharing the importance of organization and actionable steps you can take right now to simple, inspired hacks to organize with large rewards. James Lott, Jr. and I cover the following topics:

James’ journey into becoming The Super Organizer. How he did it through positivity and how he let go of so much stress in the process.
Sort it Out Sundays: Small Organizing Tips that Lead to Large Rewards, a book by James with the tips he's created, or collected from older family members, with lots of trial and error, from his 11 years in the Professional Organizing biz!
My favorite recommendations from his book:
- Grab a Notebook — safe place to capture and bold ideas, aka Getting Things Done
- Envision the End result — drives you forward, gives you clear goal “start with the end in mind”
- No Man/Woman is an Island — collaboration is key. We think we “should” be able to do it.
How when you put good things out into the world, it comes back to you.

James is a Certified Professional Organizer, is the Founder/CEO of The Super Organizer, LLC, and of JLJ Media. He is a national speaker/teacher and Certified Life Coach. He produces his own content and does work with Maria Menounos’ Afterbuzz Media Networks! as a Producer/Creator/ Director/Showrunner/Host for over 1,000 hours of TV over the last 5 years. Extra Connections is his interview show on the network. For five years running, James has the only weekly Organizing radio show called THE SOS SHOW with James Lott, Jr. He has 7 other weekly podcasts and 3 Web series. James is also the author of over 20 books and has 5 albums out! James holds many certifications and a Doctorate in Divinity.

This is a conversation you don’t want to miss. You never know how what you do inspires others. This man inspires me so and I’m thrilled to share his personality, positivity, and wisdom with you today.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH JAMES LOTT, JR.:

The SOS Show (Podcast)

A Lott of Help

Books on Amazon
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

James' book page

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

The Whole SELF Lifestyle™ with Sarah Argenal

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0400

When celebration is in the air, it’s hard not to share! That’s why episode 05 of The Positively Living Podcast is a crossover episode with Sarah Argenal, MA, CPC!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, Sarah and I celebrate big news together by sharing the details and offering combined advice on how to go beyond the burnout as a working mom. Sarah and I cover the following topics:

The reasons Lisa started her podcast and how Sarah’s book came to be and the overlap of the two
The overarching philosophy of Sarah’s book where she helps us flip the focus and go inside
How deep healing cannot come from surface-level tactics and what to do instead

Sarah’s book is an excellent companion to what Lisa coaches and an effective resource to help you do the work necessary to live the life you desire.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH SARAH :

Working Parent Resource Podcast

The Whole Self Lifestyle (Sarah’s Book)

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

WPR046: The Deeper Purpose of Productivity with Lisa Zawrotny

WPR068: The S.I.M.P.L.E. Way to De-Clutter your Environment, Your Mind, and Your Life with Lisa Zawrotny

WPR087: Sneak-Peek! The Whole SELF Lifestyle for Working Parents Book and the Positively Living Podcast with Lisa Zawrotny

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

What Gratitude Really Is And Why It Matters

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0400

Shawn Achor books

Gratitude Statistics

Gratitude is a topic you find everywhere. I believe in the power of gratitude, but I also believe we need to understand it and approach it the right way. That’s why episode 04 of The Positively Living Podcast is about Gratitude -- the power habit that brings healing and abundance!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of gratitude and actionable steps you can take right now to have more gratitude in your life. I cover the following topics:

The three categories of gifts and opportunities that gratitude can give us.
Some real statistics that back up a gratitude practice
5 myths I believe perpetuate our misunderstanding of gratitude
How you can join a community that will help you develop and/or deepen your own gratitude practice.

There are as many ways to practice gratitude as there are reasons to be grateful. For some, the concept can be overwhelming, especially when life is challenging. But, with a little guidance, it can be one of the easiest things to include in your life and it offers one of the greatest return on investments. It is a cumulative process that builds so beautifully on itself.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

The Psychology of Gratitude

How Gratitude Can Help You Through Hard Times

10% Happier - Podcast by Dan Harris

Positively Grateful Series

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Four Steps for Effective Time Management

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 02:00:00 -0400

Time management is a struggle for so many people because it’s less about managing time and more about managing ourselves. That’s why episode 03 of The Positively Living Podcast is about understanding and changing our relationship with time.

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the importance of self-management as time management and actionable steps you can take right now to take your time management to T.A.S.K. I cover the following topics:

A quick self-assessment to see how well you manage your time.
How the struggle with time management varies depending on your life.
Four steps to improve your time management within a week: T.A.S.K.
How you can secure a free Time Management Audit with Lisa

Remember to celebrate what you’re doing right. Even listening to this podcast is a step in the right direction to be celebrated. Well done!

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Time Audit (Book a Discovery Call with me)

Best Time Tracking Apps

15 Secrets Successful People Know about Time Management

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

Declutter your Life with the SIMPLE™ System

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 01:00:00 -0400

Storage Industry Statistics

Clutter is a hot topic for a reason. It’s easy to create and not always easy to remove. That’s why episode 02 of The Positively Living Podcast is about decluttering your life using the SIMPLE™ system!

In this episode of The Positively Living Podcast, I’m sharing the impact of clutter in your life and actionable steps you can take right now to start your decluttering journey. I cover the following topics:

What is clutter and why does it matter?
The five types of clutter - I cover each of them
What is the true cause of clutter in your life?
How to take the next steps toward decluttering your life

Clutter isn’t just what’s in your closet. It can be in your mind and heart, or your smartphone. It causes stress and costs you money. Investing in its removal is worthwhile, but do it the right way for you.

Thank you for listening! Be sure to tune in to all the episodes to receive tons of practical tips to create space for what really matters in your life.

If you enjoyed this episode, take a screenshot of the episode to post in your stories and tag me! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!

CONNECT WITH LISA ZAWROTNY:

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Declutter & Destress Workbook (in the Vault)

Data Report One

Mobile Apps Statistics

How to Get Rid of IPhone Apps

Email Overload Statistics

Apps that Use the Most Data

(Find gear/book links at Positively Productive Favorites Page.)

Does This Clutter Make my Butt Look Fat?
Sort it Out Sundays: Small Organizing Tips that Lead to Large Rewards
The Clever Girl's Guide to Living with Less: Break Free from Your Stuff, Even When Your Head and Heart Get in the Way
Organize 365 by Lisa Woodruff

Peter Walsh Organizing Books

Music by Ian and Jeff Zawrotny

The #1 Tool to Achieve Productivity

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 00:00:00 -0400