- TOP 5: Laura Vanderkam on How to Optimize Your Money to Buy You Time (and Experiences)
Given the vast uncertainty in the job market over the last year, it can feel near impossible to both structure your time so you actually feel productive and also manage your finances so you have the confidence you’ll weather this storm.
That’s why the Optimizer team & I have put together this Top 5 series the Creative’s Guide to Time & Financial Freedom. We have chosen my most relevant conversations with some of the world’s experts on both time & financial management to help you gain a little more control in a world that feels very out of control. These episodes are packed with actionable tips from brilliant minds who understand the unique challenges faced by freelancers and creatives, both inside and outside, of the entertainment industry.
If you haven’t already, make sure to visit optimizeyourself.me/podcast to download your very own customized podcast playlist based on your goals.
Without further adieu, here is the second part of this five-interview series with Laura Vanderkam who is the author of All the Money in the World: What the Happiest People Know About Wealth. Despite the book being ten years old, the information is timeless and this conversation will help you see the relationship between time, money, and happiness in a whole new way.
The original show notes for this conversation can be found at optimizeyourself.me/episode241.
1h 18m - Apr 16, 2024 - TOP 5: Ramit Sethi on Forging The Path Towards Your Own ‘Rich Life’
Given the vast uncertainty in the job market over the last year, it can feel near impossible to both structure your time so you actually feel productive and also manage your finances so you have the confidence you’ll weather this storm.
That’s why the Optimizer team & I have put together this Top 5 series the Creative’s Guide to Time & Financial Freedom. We have chosen my most relevant conversations with some of the world’s experts on both time & financial management to help you gain a little more control in a world that feels very out of control. These episodes are packed with actionable tips from brilliant minds who understand the unique challenges faced by freelancers and creatives, both inside and outside, of the entertainment industry.
If you haven’t already, make sure to visit optimizeyourself.me/podcast to download your very own customized podcast playlist based on your goals.
Without further adieu, here is episode one of my five-part interview series with Ramit Sethi, founder of I Will Teach You to Be Rich, and author of the New York Times bestseller of the same name. In this conversation, Ramit, who is also my business mentor, delivers a slew of actionable steps you can take to design a richer life for yourself far beyond the spreadsheet.
The original show notes for this conversation can be found at optimizeyourself.me/episode105.
57m - Apr 9, 2024 - Ep251: Building Skills, Relationships, and Weathering Industry Storms | with Shie Rozow
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My guest today is composer and music editor Shie Rozow whose lifelong passion for music and storytelling led him to work on over 150 feature films including The Flash, The Lost City, Guardians of the Galaxy and Hustle & Flow. Shie has earned 17 Golden Reel Award Nominations, winning for his work on Chicago (as assistant music editor), IMAX: Deep Sea, and Wu Tang: An American Saga along with 4 Telly Awards for his scores to Matt and Maya, Lost Time, One Day You’ll Go Blind, and Body Language: Bill Shannon.
But here's the thing: Shie's journey isn't your typical award-winning musician, child prodigy story. In fact, Shie shares that he couldn't even read music when he applied to music school. You’ll learn how his passion and determination have allowed him to grow and thrive as a creative professional despite the ups and downs of the volatile entertainment industry. Shie has discovered how to diversify his skills, interests, and passions in order to make himself irreplaceable.
In addition to diversifying his skills, Shie has made it a point to build meaningful, genuine relationships. He generously shares the strategies he uses to maintain them and these are some of the best warm outreach strategies I’ve ever heard!
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Here's What You'll Learn:
- How Shie got a scholarship at Berklee College of Music despite his 'not-so-good' application & audition
- How college prepares you for the real world according to Shie
- Why Shie said 'yes' to so many different things throughout his career
- The importance of diversifying your skills both in and outside of work
- How to be irreplaceable by AI based on Shie's years of industry experience
- KEY TAKEAWAY: How to respond to rejections without the negative impact
- Why building relationships is way better than networking
- The BEST WARM outreach strategies I’ve ever heard!
- Why Shie never landed a job from cold outreach
- Why Shie wrote a book about music primarily for filmmakers (not just musicians)
Useful Resources Mentioned:
EditFest 2023: Exploring the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Art of Editing
Shie Rozow's Books (enter the coupon code 'Optimize' at checkout for $5 off)
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep233: Redefining Your Career Path in a Post Generational Society | with Mauro Guillén
Ep214: What Creativity Is, How It Works, and the Laws to Learning It | with Joey Cofone
Ep205: Using the Hero’s Journey to Write Better Stories (and Live a Better Life) | with Chris Vogler
Ep59: The Craft of Film Composing (And Working with Composers) | with Joseph Trapanese
Guest Bio:
Shie Rozow
Composer and music editor Shie Rozow (pronounced Shy ro-zov) has taken a different path than most leading him to work on over 150 feature films including major international blockbusters like The Flash, The Lost City, Guardians of the Galaxy, and Hustle & Flow.
Armed with over 25 years of industry experience and driven by his lifelong passion for music and storytelling, Shie has earned 17 Golden Reel Award Nominations, winning for his work on Chicago (as assistant music editor), IMAX: Deep Sea, and Wu Tang: An American Saga along with 4 Telly Awards for his scores to Matt and Maya, Lost Time, One Day You’ll Go Blind, and Body Language: Bill Shannon. He brings his inexhaustible talent and natural ear for music to every story, weaving a rich musical narrative that compliments the filmmaker’s vision and unlocks new layers of depth.
Equally skilled working in film, TV, and video games, Shie has contributed his talent on hundreds of hours of TV including Desperate Housewives, Arrow, and The CW’s Stargirl, along with Amazon’s anthology series Welcome to the Blumhouse and Shudder’s Creepshow. In addition, he has also worked on music for Disney theme parks and Cirque du Soleil. Shie also composes concert music, which has been performed from coast to coast, releasing his first album Musical Fantasy in 2016. His first book Preparing for Scoring Sessions was published in March 2023 and is now required reading at Berklee College of Music’s Film Scoring program. His second book Every Note Tells a Story was published in October 2023 and has won the Pencraft Award for Literary Excellence.
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 24m - Apr 1, 2024 - [CASE STUDY] Why People Don’t Respond to Your Cold Outreach (and How to Get a Response) | with Scott Davis
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If you're a creative professional in the entertainment industry, you are probably feeling pretty discouraged by the lack of jobs popping up this year. At Optimize Yourself, we like to focus on the things we can control and set goals that we are empowered to achieve.
While we can't control what jobs are out there or whether they are offered to us, we can put ourselves in positions where we will be the first to hear of jobs when they pop up. This involves building relationships with people.
That's why today, I'm sharing this episode from the archives with editor and assistant editor Scott Davis, who, back in 2018, made a big move from New York to Los Angeles with zero contacts or connections. The strategies he used apply the same today as they did back then. I hope you find this useful and actionable so you can let go of what you can't control and take action on what you can control.
→ Click here to see the original published episode
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Here's What You'll Learn:
- Scott’s ‘origin story’ from New York to Hollywood with no connections and ‘no idea what to do’ (sound familiar?)
- The terrifying feeling of trying to get into this ‘fortress of opportunity’ in Hollywood where the only way in seems to be from people inside who are working & too busy to help you.
- The dilemma of just 'finding the next gig to pay the bills' vs. ‘playing the long game’ to pursue the career path you really want.
- The counter-intuitive shift in focus that makes that effectively eliminates that so-called ’dilemma’. (Listen for this key takeaway!)
- Why there’s no more important skill than networking in this industry and the step-by-step path to networking for introverts.
- Discover the ’secrets’ to “cold emailing” / “cold outreach” and how Scott boosted his response rate from 5% to 75%.
- The REAL goal of sending an outreach email. (HINT: It sounds so easy it couldn’t possibly work.)
- How to ‘crawl inside the brain’ of the person you send an outreach email to and see it from their perspective.
- How to get people to OPEN your approach email and why doing a few minutes of research goes a LONG way.
- Why the idea of “nobody wants to help me” is just wrong and right way to tap into people’s natural tendency to WANT share their wisdom & experience with you.
- Connecting the dots: Scott’s story of turning rejections into opportunities.
- What it really means to “lead with value” and the power of ‘validation’.
- The momentum that builds when you invest in building relationships over time.
Useful Resources Mentioned:
Get The Insider’s Guide to Writing Great Amazing Outreach Emails
The Optimizer Coaching & Mentorship Program
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep204: [CASE STUDY] How to Make Your Dream Project a Reality | with Matt Allen and Matthew Gentile
Ep192: [CASE STUDY] How a Single Outreach Email Led to a Dream Job at Marvel | with Matthew Farrugia
Want a Response to Your Cold Emails? Then Every Message MUST Do These 5 Things
The 5 Most Common Mistakes You’re Making With Your Cold Emails (and How to Fix Them)
Ep184: Networking (the Right Way), Mentorship, and Connecting with ‘Experts’ | with Troy Takaki, ACE
Guest Bio:
Scott DavisJ. Scott Davis is an editor, assistant editor, outdoorsman, hopeless introvert and constant seeker of knowledge.
"I lived and worked in NYC for over 10 years working with some of the greatest documentarians on some really great films like: “Makers: The Women Who Make America”, “Cancer: The Emperor of All Maladies”, “Wagner’s Dream” and “Outside the Bubble”. In the fall of 2018 I headed west to Los Angeles to escape bad weather, lack of sunlight, and 5th floor walk ups. The lifestyle change is glorious but the true joy is I am now pursuing a long held dream of working in scripted features and series."
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 3m - Mar 29, 2024 - Ep250: The Creative's Guide to Understanding AI and Leveraging AI to Build Workflows & Optimize Your Creativity | with Rob Howard
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→ Click here for your customized podcast playlist
Today's guest is Rob Howard who is a professional software developer and the founder of Innovating with AI, a company that helps entrepreneurs harness the power of AI. As a veteran with over 20 years in the tech industry, Rob is here to help us demystify AI by giving us a glimpse of how Large Language Models (LLM) really work. Rob breaks down for us what makes AI tick and how understanding it can shift our perspective from fear to opportunity, as AI becomes another tool for unleashing more of our creativity so we can do great work.
Rob also shares how you can start to dabble with AI so you can integrate it with your own unique talents and skills. Regardless of how you feel about AI, this conversation will open your mind and help you future-proof yourself in order to stay ahead in an ever-evolving landscape.
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Here's What You'll Learn:
- How being a Jack-of-all-trades can create robustness in what you do in life and in business
- Why Rob compares AI to a giant Plinko board
- What tokens are and how are they used in Large Language Models (LLM)
- The math that makes AI work
- How AI gives us decent answers and why it shouldn't terrify us
- The big change AI brought us that we didn't think was possible
- The root cause of our fear of AI and why it's actually a good thing
- What will make you replaceable by AI, and more importantly, what won't
- The level at which AI fails and how to leverage it to do great work
- How to innovate with AI without being a coder
Useful Resources Mentioned:
Image: Zombie crawling to the finish line
Continue to Listen & Learn
EditFest 2023: Exploring the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Art of Editing
What Does The Future Hold for “AE’s” In the Age of “AI”? | LACPUG Panel
Ep214: What Creativity Is, How It Works, and the Laws to Learning It | with Joey Cofone
Ep233: Redefining Your Career Path in a Post Generational Society | with Mauro Guillén
Guest Bio:
Rob Howard
Rob Howard is a 20-year tech industry veteran, software developer, startup founder, investor and entrepreneur – and the creator of Innovating with AI.
Rob’s story starts at age 12 – when he learned to code and built his first HTML websites. A few years later, his first online business was featured in Entertainment Weekly, and he was off to the races in a career that combined tech and entrepreneurship with journalism, public communications and a unique approach to building companies that make their customers and employees proud.
Rob founded a 1-million-user cloud storage startup that was acquired in 2009, and since then he’s built, acquired and invested in a range of tech startups, including acquisitions of MasterWP and Understrap and the launch of EveryAlt, BusinessEnglish.ai and Inbox Autopilot, three AI-powered software-as-a-service platforms.
Rob is the CEO of HDC, a web development firm that has served brands including Harvard University, MIT, The World Bank, and Marriott. His software powers more than 100,000 websites, including sites for Intel, Facebook and The Oscars.
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 24m - Mar 19, 2024 - What Does The Future Hold for "AE's" In the Age of "AI"? | LACPUG Panel
Want to continue learning from the world’s experts on time management, networking, career development, better sleep, overcoming burnout, and so much more?
→ Click here for your customized podcast playlist
Artificial intelligence is rapidly advancing and causing a stir among creative professionals that ranges from excitement at new possibilities to fear of rendering jobs redundant and unnecessary.
As the responsibilities of assistant editors have morphed into highly technical tasks over the years, a disconcerting question emerges: are their roles at risk of being assumed by AI?
At last year's LACPUG, I was honored to be the moderator of a panel that talked about this very topic. The distinguished panelists were Ashley McKinney, Assistant Editor (Gotham Knights, Shooter, The Last Movie Star); Scott Jacobs, Assistant Editor (Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, WandaVision, The Orville); and Richard Sanchez, Visual Effects Editor (Ahsoka, Bill & Ted Face the Music, She-Hulk: Attorney at Law).
Whether you are an assistant editor or any creative professional in any industry, this conversation applies to you. AI is not going anywhere and the more we understand how it impacts every job and person we interact with, the more we can adapt and grow with it. Join us for a candid conversation about what this paradigm shift means for all creative professionals. This is a discussion you won't want to miss and I am immensely grateful to LACPUG for allowing me to publish it here.
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Here's What You'll Learn:
- Why it’s important to say Assistant Editor as opposed to AE
- Should we allow AI into the creative workflow?
- Where AI can be dangerous in the workflow and what we can do to avoid that
- The MovieLabs 2030 Vision Initiative and how it affects the assistant editors' world
- Efficiency versus effectiveness and which one should you focus on more
- Will there be a new path to becoming an editor?
- Understanding the limitations of AI and using that as leverage
- How to protect your boundaries in the midst of efficiency brought about by AI
- Where you can start to learn more about AI
- The essential skills you need to develop to become irreplaceable
Useful Resources Mentioned:
EditFest 2023: Exploring the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Art of Editing
The 2030 Vision Initiative (MovieLabs)
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep214: What Creativity Is, How It Works, and the Laws to Learning It | with Joey Cofone
Mastermind Q&A: How to Successfully Be a “Specialized Generalist” | with Michael Addis
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
52m - Mar 12, 2024 - EditFest 2023: Exploring the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on the Art of Editing
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When it comes to AI, I've made it pretty clear where I stand. I believe we are seeing the transition away from specialization and back to generalization when it comes to the value we bring to the workplace. And AI is only accelerating this process. As creatives, we can choose to embrace the possibilities of what AI can offer us while doubling down on our unique zone of genius that sets us apart from the machines or we can choose to be left behind.
At last year's EditFest, I was one of 4 panelists invited to talk about the convergence of AI with the creative process, particularly related to the art of editing. My fellow distinguished panelists were Jon Dudkowski, ACE Editor (Star Trek Discovery, Umbrella Academy, Man in the High Castle) ; Chad Nelson, producer and creator of Critterz, an AI-generated short film; and Cristobal Valenzuela, co-founder and CEO of Runway (and named one of the top 100 most influential people in AI by Time magazine). The panel was moderated by Carolyn Giardina, tech editor at The Hollywood Reporter.
I was honored to be part of a panel on this important topic and I am immensely appreciative to EditFest and Jenni McCormick for giving me permission to publish the talk here for all of you to experience. Please enjoy the 2023 EditFest Panel, Artificial Intelligence: Exploring the Technology and It's Impact on the Art of Editing.
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Here's What You'll Learn:
- What generative AI is and how it works
- What separates humans from machines
- How AI can be used in the cutting room
- How AI enhances the editing process
- Where AI was used in creating the animated short film, Critterz
- What AI can't do and why the human mind is still essential in the creative process
- How AI can help creatives
- The Gartner Hype Cycle and where we are in terms of AI technology
- What creatives can do to catch up with AI
- What mentoring in the edit bay can look like in the age of AI
- What makes humans irreplaceable (even actors and voice actors)
- How data sets that AI feeds on are used and maintained
Useful Resources Mentioned:
The Age of Spiritual Machines: When Computers Exceed Human Intelligence by Ray Kurzweil
匚尺丨ㄒㄒ乇尺乙 — An animated short created with AI
Ep233: Redefining Your Career Path in a Post Generational Society | with Mauro Guillén
Ep85: Mentorship, Networking, and Surviving Hollywood Blockbusters | with Dody Dorn, ACE
The Creativity Code: Art and Innovation in the Age of AI by Marcus Du Sautoy
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep214: What Creativity Is, How It Works, and the Laws to Learning It | with Joey Cofone
Mastermind Q&A: How to Successfully Be a “Specialized Generalist” | with Michael Addis
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 20m - Mar 5, 2024 - Unlock Your True Creative Potential [Podcast Trailer]
Learn how to design the more balanced, more sustainable, and more fulfilling creative career you deserve...without sacrificing your health, your relationships, or your sanity in the process.
In a nutshell this podcast is a combination of Tim Ferriss meets Ted Lasso (minus the mustache). Hosted by Zack Arnold (ACE) - an award-winning Hollywood editor, producer, and director turned career strategist - these raw, honest, and candid conversations with Bestselling Authors, World-Class Athletes, Hollywood Legends, Elite Experts in a Variety of Fields, and Everyday People Achieving Extraordinary Things will both provide you with the necessary tools to unlock your true creative potential as well as inspiring you to believe that you can.
→ Visit optimizeyourself.me/podcast to download your customized podcast playlist curated from hundreds of our expert interviews down to the 5 best conversations to help you unlock your true creative potential today!
2m - Mar 5, 2024 - Ep249: OpenAI's Chad Nelson on How Artificial Intelligence Could Shape the Future of Creativity, Collaboration, and How We Can Survive
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My guest today is AI specialist Chad Nelson, who is also an award-winning creative director and technology strategist with over two decades of blending technology and entertainment seamlessly. Throughout his career, he has been at the forefront of emerging technologies and applying them to create new entertainment experiences. And this new era of AI is no different.
Chad has recently created an animated short film, Critterz, with the help of AI. Though AI has created a lot of controversy in the creative space, Chad reveals a different perspective in which AI is just another tool that artists can use to let their ideas come to life. We go way beneath the surface of prompts and AI art to unravel why and how the creative human mind remains indispensable in any creative work. We also discuss the ethics involved in using AI as well as how creatives can harness AI to stand out from all the noise that, ironically, AI will create.
As a creative myself, I too understand the fear that this age of AI can bring. But this conversation with Chad shines a new light on understanding AI and shows us how irreplaceable the creative human mind is.
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Here's What You'll Learn:
- Combining technology and experiences: Chad's origin story
- How playing golf while on vacation inspired a brilliant idea
- The mindset that Chad takes on to follow through with his ideas
- How Chad created his first AI-generated image using a short prompt
- Using AI in the ideation phase of creative work
- The cons (and pros) of replacing certain jobs with technology
- Where ethics draw the line between technology and people
- The ethical use of AI in creative work
- The pros and cons of democratization of creativity tools
- How to stand out in the midst of the rise of AI
- How the creative human mind, education, and experiences still plays a vital role even in using AI
Useful Resources Mentioned:
Remember These Free AOL CDs? They're Collectibles Now | Smart News| Smithsonian Magazine
First AI generated image that Chad created using a short prompt
匚尺丨ㄒㄒ乇尺乙 -- An animated short created with AI
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep214: What Creativity Is, How It Works, and the Laws to Learning It | with Joey Cofone
Ep233: Redefining Your Career Path in a Post Generational Society | with Mauro Guillén
Guest Bio:
Chad Nelson Chad Nelson is an award-winning creative director and technology strategist with over 2 decades of experience combining the latest technologies and entertainment to create immersive experiences. He is a co-founder of Eight Cylinder Studios and WGT Media and has collaborated with Intel, Sony and Microsoft to name a few. Chad currently works with OpenAI as a creative collaborator.
Chad's recent work is Critterz, an animated short film created with the help of OpenAI's DALL-E and was shown in festivals such as the Portland Festival of Cinema, Annecy International Animation Film Festival, Cannes Lion and Qld XR Festival 2023 where it was awarded Best in Creative AI.
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 28m - Feb 27, 2024 - Ep248: Make Yourself Memorable: How to Leave an Impression, Build Your Network, & Get Hired | with Carole Kirschner
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My guest today is Carole Kirschner who, after spending fifteen years as a television development executive, a former Vice President of Television for Steven Spielberg's Amblin Entertainment and a Comedy Development executive at CBS, decided to switch to the other side of the desk to help creative professionals build a thriving career in the entertainment industry. If there is anyone who has been on the studio executive side who 'gets us,' Carole is the one.
In today's conversation, Carole shares the unadulterated reality of what it takes to have a successful creative career. We dive deep into the qualities you need to have as well as the right way to tell your story in order for you to stand out. Carole shares her strategies for networking to help you draw attention and leave a lasting impression, whether you're doing it in a mixer, cold outreach or through social media.
My conversation with Carole is filled with strategies and mindsets from an executive’s perspective to set you on the path to creative success.
Want to Hear More Episodes Like This One?
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Here's What You'll Learn:
- Why Carole transitioned from a successful career in the entertainment industry to becoming a coach
- Why you need to have 'Entrepreneurial' in your list of qualifications
- How to structure your story so people will give you their time
- What makes a story bad and how do you make it better
- How to make your story about the other person and not you
- Why people hate networking and how to take the pressure off of you
- How to make yourself memorable to people
- The right way to provide genuine value
- Building relationships via social media
- How to make sure you're not killing yourself while going the extra mile at work
Useful Resources Mentioned:
Ep213: How to Break Into Any Industry (Without Having Experience) | with Niceole Levy
Ep205: Using the Hero’s Journey to Write Better Stories (and Live a Better Life) | with Chris Vogler
Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking by Malcolm Gladwell
Ep164: How to ‘Get In the Room’ and Work with Producers Who Will Value & Respect You | with Matt Nix
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep184: Networking (the Right Way), Mentorship, and Connecting with ‘Experts’ | with Troy Takaki, ACE
Ep85: Mentorship, Networking, and Surviving Hollywood Blockbusters | with Dody Dorn, ACE
Ep115: How to Be So Thorough You Can’t Be Denied | with James Wilcox, ACE
Ep106: On the Vital Importance of “Being Nice” | with Jesse Averna, ACE
Ep99: How to Provide Value & Get Paid What You’re Worth | Mastermind Q&A with Monica Daniel
Ep78: How to Build Meaningful Relationships in the ‘Real World’ | with Camille Virginia
Ep41: How to Master “Offline” Networking at Live Events | with Camille Virginia
Ep12: The Right Way to Network In Hollywood | with Chris Visser
Guest Bio:
Carole Kirschner Carole Kirschner spent fifteen years as a television development executive. A former Vice President of Television for Steven Spielberg's first Amblin Entertainment and a Comedy Development exec at CBS, she’s had the privilege of working with some of the most respected writers in the industry.
Switching to the other side of the desk she became a consultant and created and runs the CBS/Paramount Writers Mentoring Program. And has been the director of the WGA Showrunner Training Program since its inception.
Carole, through her career coaching practice, Carole Kirschner Entertainment Career Strategies works primarily with screenwriters who are stuck or need help navigating the political landscape. She is also an international speaker and her book, Hollywood Game Plan: How to Land a Job in Film, TV and Digital Entertainment is taught in colleges across the country.
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 17m - Feb 20, 2024 - Ep247: When the Passion Tax Leads to a Stroke & How to Rebuild Your Life | with Troy DeVolld
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My guest today is Troy DeVolld who is a reality television producer, author and speaker with dozens of credits on shows such as The Surreal Life, The Osbournes, The Bachelor, and Dancing with the Stars. Troy is also the author of the books Reality TV, One Hundred Poems about Los Angeles series and the book about the TV notes process, And Another Thing.
In his more than 23 years in the industry, Troy has no doubt developed an in depth passion for his craft. Troy and I dive deep into some of the wisdom he gained from his experiences to be happy and fulfilled in his chosen craft, including diversifying your skills, setting boundaries while collaborating effectively, and even setting boundaries with yourself. Troy has so succinctly summarized our entire conversation into one short sentence:
"I sacrificed my life to have a version of my life."
No doubt that my conversation with Troy will inspire you to rekindle your passion for your craft while equipping you with the right tools and mindsets so you can stay happy, sane and well.
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Here's What You'll Learn:
- How Troy went from an aspiring comic book artist to producing reality TV
- How Troy 'fell into' writing for a Woody Woodpecker commercial
- What makes networking valuable to both you and the person you’re reaching out to
- The advantages of being 'older' in the industry
- The right way to 'do it all' when you have multiple passions
- What makes all your past experiences and skills relevant and valuable
- The difference between being exploited and caring for what you do
- How to collaborate with people no matter what your working stye is
- Why Troy wrote a book about how to handle studio and network notes
- How to get out of your own way and let creativity flow
- Reality TV: Ugly Stepchild of Hollywood?
- Why Troy decided to stay in the business even after having a stroke
Useful Resources Mentioned:
Ep205: Using the Hero’s Journey to Write Better Stories (and Live a Better Life) | with Chris Vogler
Reality TV: An Insider's Guide to TV's Hottest Market
And Another Thing: A Beginner's Guide to the Television Notes Process
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep142: Michelle Tesoro (ACE) On Playing Chess With Your Health & Well-Being (Pt2)
Ep155: How a Tentpole Hollywood Feature Editor Stays Healthy, Fit, and Sane | with Alan Bell, ACE
Ep207: How to Maintain Health No Matter How “Busy” You Are | with Jeff Greenberg
Ep177: Mental Health is Not a Luxury…Even For “Top Guns” | with Eddie Hamilton, ACE [Pt 2]
Ep209: Life After 3 Heart Attacks in 24 Hours | with Marc Wielage
Ep136: Promoting Mindfulness, Well-Being, and Sanity In the Edit Bay | with Kevin Tent, ACE
Guest Bio:
Troy DeVolld Troy DeVolld began his career in Hollywood 23 years ago on the MTV series Fear and has been credited on shows like The Osbournes, The Surreal Life, The Bachelor and multiple seasons of Dancing With The Stars. He's a sought-after consultant in the reality space and a speaker at Story Expo and Masters of Story events. Books include Reality TV, And Another Thing and the One Hundred Poems About Los Angeles series.
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 24m - Feb 13, 2024 - Ep246: Building a Career Beyond Your Job Title, Strategically Crafting Your Story, and Diversifying Your Career Portfolio | with Jeff Bartsch
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Today's guest is Jeff Bartsch who is a visionary storyteller and communication strategist at Story Greenlight. He has over 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry and online business. Jeff has also been a guest on my podcast before, talking about storytelling and making a living out of storytelling.
In our conversation today, we discuss the craft of storytelling from a strategic perspective. "Strategic" storytelling can change our human interactions in our daily lives. Storytelling is what really governs all human interactions whether you're starting a business, looking for a job, writing outreach emails, or even selling a product or service. We dissect what makes a story bad, and what makes it so powerful that it builds bonds between people. Jeff also shares candidly how understanding the psychology of storytelling revived his business from failure.
No doubt that my conversation with Jeff will unravel the strategies you can use to reinvent the way you interact with people, no matter where you are in your career.
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Here's What You'll Learn:
- What creativity really means and why understanding it can change your own creativity
- Why a comment Jeff got as a kid changed the way he thought about creativity
- How understanding your technical skills can take your creativity to the next level
- What does Jeff mean by the 'thing underneath the thing' in your story
- The four elements of a story definition and how it governs all human interactions
- The difference between tactical storytelling and strategic storytelling
- How bonds are formed between the storyteller and the audience
- How to construct your own story and apply it in your human interactions
- Jeff's business that (almost) tanked and how understanding storytelling revived it
Useful Resources Mentioned:
A Million Miles in a Thousand Years: How I Learned to Live a Better Story by Donald Miller
Quote by Steve Jobs: “Creativity is just connecting things. When you ...”
Ep205: Using the Hero’s Journey to Write Better Stories (and Live a Better Life) | with Chris Vogler
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep27: How to Rewrite Your Own Story | with Dr. Steven Isaacman
Ep236: Building An Oscar-Winning Career…Without Sacrificing Your Values | with Paul Rogers
Ep233: Redefining Your Career Path in a Post Generational Society | with Mauro Guillén
Ep229: Why Providing Value & Supporting Your Community is Essential | with Shiran Carolyn Amir, ACE
Ep214: What Creativity Is, How It Works, and the Laws to Learning It | with Joey Cofone
Guest Bio:
Jeff Bartsch Jeff Bartsch is a visionary storyteller and communication strategist at Story Greenlight. With over 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry and online business, Jeff has helped shape content for clients including ABC, NBC, Universal, Disney, Apple, and many others. Jeff’s commentary has been featured in major publications including Time Magazine, USA Today, and the Associated Press. Through Story Greenlight, Jeff and his team empower business experts and leaders to tell their stories, serve more clients, and expand their impact in the world. He believes that the power of story is within reach of everyone, and that human connection is everything.
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 19m - Feb 6, 2024 - Ep245: How to Reinvent Yourself, Pursue Your Dreams, and Change Careers at Any Age | with Marcelo Lewin
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My guest today is Marcelo Lewin who considers himself a serial "accidental entrepreneur." What he means by that is that he creates websites around his passions, and in his own words, “somehow they turn into something other companies want.” He loves the intersection of business, productivity and creativity, and now, at the age of 56, he decided to switch careers to pursue his lifelong dream of filmmaking after 30+ years working in the tech industry. From an outside perspective, it might look like Marcelo can’t decide what he wants to do with his life, but in reality, he’s following passion and opportunity with great intention.
In our conversation, Marcelo reveals that his career shifts were driven by his active choice to pursue them. We talk about why he keeps switching careers and the mindsets and strategies he applies to pull them off. We also discuss his views on failure, why he seems to always expect it, and the strategies he uses to manage it.
This conversation is full of knowledge bombs that you can use on your own path whether you're transitioning to a new career or looking to excel on your current career path.
Want to Hear More Episodes Like This One?
» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episode
Here's What You'll Learn:
- Marcelo's origin of story of coming to the US with little money
- Why Marcelo decided to shift careers from tech to filmmaking at the age of 56
- The mindsets and strategies Marcelo uses to shift careers
- Why the entrepreneur mindset is important, even if you're working for someone
- The concept of Plan B and how to apply it
- How to have a side project while working full time
- The key to learning something new and how to even begin
- Key mindsets and strategies to manage failure
- Marcelo's approach to AI while pursuing a career in filmmaking
- Marcelo's definition of the word 'success'
Useful Resources Mentioned:
Is it time to re-invent yourself? | LinkedIn
Ep55: How Tiny Changes Can Create Remarkable Results | with James Clear
Ep86: How to Become 'Indistractable' | with Nir Eyal
Ep218: How to Know (Without a Doubt) If It’s Time to Quit | with Annie Duke
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep173: How to Reinvent Yourself at Any Age (And Become Badass) | with Scott Morgan
Ep102: How to Create Your Own Opportunities to Pursue Dream Projects | with Richard Sanchez
Ep131: How Having a ‘Side Hustle’ Buys You the Freedom to Say ‘No’ | with Alex Ferrari
Overcoming “The Paycheck Paradox” (so you can make a living doing what you love)
Ep179: Navigating The ‘Messy Middle’ of Life & Career Transitions | with Melissa Costello
Ep145: [CASE STUDY] Navigating a Difficult Career Transition | with Sam Lavin
Guest Bio:
Marcelo Lewin Marcelo Lewin calls himself an "accidental entrepreneur" having created multiple websites around his passions, which later became small startups "by accident" and later were acquired, including My Internet Desktop, Pixel Heads Network, Filmmaking Webinars, How to Create VR and Headless Creator.
He's been a Developer, Technical Architect, Project Manager, Podcaster, Blogger, Videographer, Designer, VP, and Director at many companies including NBC, Toyota, Walt Disney Imagineering and J.F. Shea Co, Inc.
Marcelo is making a midlife career transition at the age of 56 from 30+ years in the tech industry to filmmaking to fulfill his dream of working in Post-Production. He is currently enrolled at the UCLA Extension Filmmaking Program focused on Post-Production and Editing.
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 28m - Jan 30, 2024 - Ep244: [CASE STUDY] How Marc Wiltshire Optimized His Cold Outreach Strategies (and Expanded His Network) to Land His Dream Job
Want to continue learning from the world’s experts on time management, networking, career development, better sleep, overcoming burnout, and so much more?
→ Click here for your customized podcast playlist
Today's guest is Marc Wiltshire who is a television editor and a valued member of the Optimizer community. Marc had been working on high profile shows like Star, Our Kind of People, Bel-Air and Wu-Tang: An American Saga. In our conversation, Marc shares his journey of living in Singapore for 4 years to study in film school, to moving to LA, knowing no one, to then getting consistent work on high profile projects.. From the outside perspective, we can say that Marc is just one 'lucky' person. But he played a big role in making his own luck.
Marc is one of the many editors who decided to take the traditional path of becoming an Assistant Editor first before becoming an editor. But what's different is Marc's mindset, which allowed him to shorten his 5-year plan to 2 years. In our conversation, find out why Marc didn’t view taking an AE job as stepping down, but he actually considered a move up.
You’ll also hear how Marc landed his dream job of cutting Wu-Tang with the help of the Optimizer program. We go in depth into the mindset shift he needed to nail one of the toughest interviews of his career.
This student case study with Marc will show you all the necessary tools you need to create your own luck and keep landing your next dream job.
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Here's What You'll Learn:
- The role luck played in making Marc's job connections
- What gave Marc the confidence to say 'yes' to a high profile opportunity
- Why Marc thinks the Assistant Editor route is what's best for him
- The importance of narrowing down who you want to work with
- How Marc shortened his 5-year plan of sitting in the editor's chair to just 2 years
- The big difference between doing the hard work and allowing yourself to be exploited
- The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people
- The course in the Optimize Yourself program that made Marc land his dream job
- The mindset shift Marc needed to help nail his toughest job interview
Useful Resources Mentioned:
Ep70: To Assist or Not to Assist…That Is the Question (pt 1) | with Chris Cavanagh
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep204: [CASE STUDY] How to Make Your Dream Project a Reality | with Matt Allen and Matthew Gentile
Ep192: [CASE STUDY] How a Single Outreach Email Led to a Dream Job at Marvel | with Matthew Farrugia
Ep12: The Right Way to Network In Hollywood | with Chris Visser
Ep229: Why Providing Value & Supporting Your Community is Essential | with Shiran Carolyn Amir, ACE
Ep71: To Assist or Not to Assist…That Is the Question (pt 2) | with Wellington Harrison
Ep39: Breaking “Bad” From Assistant to Editor | with Kelley Dixon, ACE (pt 1)
Ep40: Breaking “Bad” From Assistant to Editor | with Kelley Dixon, ACE (pt 2)
Guest Bio:
Marc Wiltshire
Marc Wiltshire is a Film & Television Editor known for Wu-Tang: An American Saga, BEL-AIR, and Lee Daniels' STAR.
Born in Montreal, Canada, now residing in Los Angeles, Marc initially found his passion for storytelling through writing, leading him to write and direct several short films. While editing his first short film on a 16mm Steenbeck, Marc discovered his passion for Film Editing. He is committed to making bold choices, protecting the story, and bringing the best version of the filmmaker's vision to life.
An alumnus of NYU's Tisch School of the Arts Graduate Film Department, Marc worked closely with Oliver Stone and Todd Solondz in the making of his short film My Avatar, which premiered at the Fantasia Film Festival in 2011. His film Bullshit (2016) became a hit on the festival circuit, winning awards in Canada, the United States, and Australia.
Prior to moving to LA, Marc lived in Singapore for four years editing dozens of short films, commercials, music videos, and documentaries.
An avid cinephile and record collector, you can find Marc at the movies every week.
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 12m - Jan 23, 2024 - Ep243: [CASE STUDY] Beyond NCIS: Abandoning Job Security (Without Burning a Bridge), Optimizing Unemployment, & Embracing Fear of the Unknown | with Luke Brown
Want to continue learning from the world’s experts on time management, networking, career development, better sleep, overcoming burnout, and so much more?
→ Click here for your customized podcast playlist
My guest today is Luke Brown who is a television editor and also a valued member of the Optimizer community. Luke was a long-time editor for the hit TV series NCIS for 8 years until he decided, with the help of the Optimize Yourself community, to leave the show and pursue passion projects. With all the reasons to stay - a great team, a hit TV series that could be anyone's dream job, job stability - Luke shares with us his reasons why he needed to leave.
In this student case study, Luke and I talk about the exercises we did in his Hot Seats to figure out if he really needed to leave or if he should stay. It wasn't easy for Luke after he left his job, but as Luke reveals, it was a decision he wouldn’t change. Today Luke still finds fulfillment in his decision and on top of that, he still maintains a great relationship with the people he left.
My conversation with Luke will show you the mindset you need in making a career transition or deciding if you should leave a job that no longer fits your needs. More importantly, our conversation will show you how you can prepare so you'll have the power to make tough decisions and say no to the wrong opportunities.
Want to Hear More Episodes Like This One?
» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episode
Here's What You'll Learn:
- Luke's origin story and the kind of projects he'd like to work on
- The danger of having job stability
- What made Luke decide to join the Optimizer community after being skeptical about it for years
- Why Luke wanted to leave a job that could be anyone's dream job
- The outreach email Luke workshopped with me that got him a response at the most unlikely time
- The exercise Luke and I did to debate about the job at NCIS
- The podcast episode and the lesson that gave Luke the little push he needed to finally decide
- How Luke left his job at NCIS without burning bridges and more importantly, still maintain a great relationship with them
- The preparation you need to do that will empower you to make tough decisions
- How Luke spent his time during the Hollywood strikes
- How Luke coped with the difficult and messy middle
- Why Luke would not make a different decision on quitting, knowing what he knows now
Useful Resources Mentioned:
Ep218: How to Know (Without a Doubt) If It’s Time to Quit | with Annie Duke
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep145: [CASE STUDY] Navigating a Difficult Career Transition | with Sam Lavin
Is it time to quit, or should you stick it out?
Ep132: How to Pursue Fulfilling Work and Find Your ‘Calling’ | with Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar
Guest Bio:
Luke BrownLuke Brown is a film & television director, producer and editor with a background in music, acting, theatre, psychology, writing and media production. With a combined love for the resilience of the human condition and fast-paced, kinetic storytelling, Luke’s approach is character first. He strives to create intimacy within chaos by “mining the moment” - identifying core character flaws, challenging them with ferocity, nurturing them with compassion, and ultimately transforming them into their character’s greatest strength. In doing so, he hopes to inspire others to enjoy their struggles and be their own personal hero. His body of work includes television shows such as NCIS: Hawai’i, NCIS: New Orleans, Once Upon a Time and The Big C.When he’s not telling stories, Luke lives his own as a father, globetrotter, scuba diver, long-distance runner, amateur DJ, coffee roaster and personal finance enthusiast. He lives with his wife and daughter in Los Angeles.
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 17m - Jan 23, 2024 - Ep242: A Mental Performance Expert on Shifting Your Mindset to Endure Setbacks | with Derin ‘DMac’ McMains
Want to continue learning from the world’s experts on time management, networking, career development, better sleep, overcoming burnout, and so much more?
→ Click here for your customized podcast playlist
Derin 'Dmac' McMains is a former baseball player, coach and manager turned Director of Mental Performance at global cybersecurity company, ReliaQuest. He's taken mental performance principles to train athletes, executives and other high performers to take their game to the next level. In our conversation, Derin and I talk about mindsets and how changing your relationship with your goals will allow you more freedom to make mistakes and trust the process instead of the outcome.
We explore how your self-image has a big impact on the goal setting process. Derin reveals his unique framework to setting goals that lets you see not only the action plan but also the story you need to tell yourself to make it happen. He puts it simply:
"How I see myself determines how I see the world. So how I see myself, my identity, determines my perspective and my perspective is going to determine my thoughts and my thoughts are going to determine my emotions and then it's my emotions that influence my actions."
This perspective flips the script on how we typically think of goals. Instead of relying on achieving goals to boost our self image, Derin suggests it starts with a positive self image and the goals come second. No doubt that this conversation with Derin will not only give you a fresh perspective about goals but also lets you walk away with the right mindset and more importantly, action steps to take them on.
Want to Hear More Episodes Like This One?
» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episode
Here's What You'll Learn:
- The ‘comparison trap’ and the importance of identity
- How to rewrite your story to get out of the ‘comparison trap’
- How to find your ‘best performance’
- The three questions to ask yourself when rewriting your story
- How changing your relationship with your goals gives you more freedom to make mistakes
- Breaking down Carol Dweck’s ‘Growth Mindset’ to make every moment a refining moment
- The danger of getting to the top and what you can do to avoid the trap
- The SMART-AS(S) Goals framework and why SMART Goals are not enough
- Why the first decision of the day is important to achieving your goals
- How to get into the ‘flow state’ and develop your skill to be present
Useful Resources Mentioned:
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Dweck, Carol S. S.
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep32: Why People Fail And How To Properly Set Your Goals | with Jeanette Goodrich
Here’s Why Over 90% of People Fail to Achieve Their Resolutions
Ep33: Winning at The Ultimate Game of Life | with Jim Bunch
Ep48: Feeling Lost? It’s Time to ‘Find Your Why’ | with David Mead
Ep55: How Tiny Changes Can Create Remarkable Results | with James Clear
Ep94: [CASE STUDY] How to Identify Your “One Thing” and Accomplish It Every Day | Mastermind Q&A
Guest Bio:
Derin 'DMac' McMains Derin McMains is a former professional baseball player and manager, now Director of Mental Performance at global cybersecurity company ReliaQuest. McMains has spent the last decade-plus training athletes, executives and other high performers using mental performance principles to take their game to the next level. He’s built out mental performance programs for the San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, and the University of Notre Dame. One of the most important skills he teaches is a simple (yet not easy) one: learning how to be a high performer by staying in the present moment.
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 24m - Jan 17, 2024 - Ep241: How to Optimize Your Money to Buy You Time (and Experiences) | with Laura Vanderkam
Want to continue learning from the world’s experts on time management, networking, career development, better sleep, overcoming burnout, and so much more?
→ Click here for your customized podcast playlist
My guest today is Laura Vanderkam who is the author of several books about time management & productivity. She first appeared on this show to talk about her latest book, Tranquility by Tuesday: 9 Ways to Calm the Chaos and Make Time for What Matters, which I highly recommend you listen to if you haven’t yet. Today, she's back because of a book she wrote more than 10 years ago, All the Money in the World: What the Happiest People Know About Wealth.
Now, before you dismiss this as just another financial advice episode with a self-proclaimed 'financial guru,' hold on. Laura and I delve deep into the psychology of wealth, where money, happiness, and fulfillment intersect. In our conversation, we talk about the real reason people struggle to find fulfillment regardless of their financial standing. More importantly, Laura reveals how some happiness can be bought and it might not be as expensive as you think.
I have no doubt that Laura's unique perspective on money is still so relevant today as it was when she wrote it, it will help you make better choices and find fulfillment no matter where you stand financially.
Want to Hear More Episodes Like This One?
» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episode
Here's What You'll Learn:
- The similarities and differences of money management and time management
- How scarcity mindset affects your decisions
- The money question people find hard to answer and the reason why
- What the 2010 Daniel Kahneman study reveals and why it matters
- Can money buy happiness?
- The difference between happiness, fulfillment and well-being
- What is ‘opportunity cost’ and how can it affect the quality of your life
- What the word ‘enough’ really means
- How being clear on your values can help you make better financial decisions
- 1099 mindset vs W2 mindset: and how each one can change your perspective
- The most important questions to ask yourself when making a decision about your finances
- Why people still can’t find fulfillment after being ‘retired’
Useful Resources Mentioned:
Ep203: Using Time Tracking and Habit Formation to Create Moments That Matter | with Laura Vanderkam
"All the Money in the World" | A Book by Laura Vanderkam
Laura Vanderkam: How to gain control of your free time | TED Talk
Coffee shop economics (people are a good use of time) - Laura Vanderkam
Daniel Kahneman study on income and happiness
Ramit Sethi Podcast Interview on Forging Your Own Rich Life: Episode 105
How to Overcome Your Upper Limits
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep93: How to Organize & Prepare Your Finances As a Freelancer | Mastermind Q&A
Ep43: How to Optimize Your Finances As a Freelancer or Small Business Owner | with Sylvia Inks
Ep132: How to Pursue Fulfilling Work and Find Your ‘Calling’ | with Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar
Ep77: Your Time Is Worthless (Here’s How to Invest It Properly) | with Matt Sandrini
Ep171: How to Determine If a Job Is Worth The Costs | Mastermind Q&A
Guest Bio:
Laura Vanderkam Laura Vanderkam is the author of several time management and productivity books, including the new Tranquility by Tuesday: 9 Ways to Calm the Chaos and Make Time for What Matters, along with Juliet’s School of Possibilities, Off the Clock, I Know How She Does It, What the Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast, and 168 Hours. Her work has appeared in publications including the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, Fast Company, and Fortune. She is the host of the podcast Before Breakfast and the co-host, with Sarah Hart-Unger, of the podcast Best of Both Worlds. She lives outside Philadelphia with her husband and five children, and blogs at lauravanderkam.com.
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 18m - Jan 9, 2024 - Ep240: Stop Delaying Your Dreams and Live a Life Rich in Experiences | with Bridget Hilton & Joe Huff
Want to continue learning from the world’s experts on time management, networking, career development, better sleep, overcoming burnout, and so much more?
→ Click here for your customized podcast playlist
My guests today are Bridget Hilton and Joe Huff who are co-authors of the best selling book, Experiential Billionaire: Build a Life Rich in Experiences and Die With No Regrets. Before you dismiss this episode thinking you're too busy making a living and you don't have the resources to do the things you want to do, my conversation with Bridget and Joe delved into exactly that fear:
"People get scared because it's easier to wrap their heads around what they have to lose than what they have to gain." - Bridget Hilton
Bridget and Joe surveyed over 20,000 people from all walks of life and the result is eye opening. People's regrets are very similar no matter their age and income status and in our conversation, we talk about why people often put things that matter in the fictional world of 'someday.' But more importantly, we talk about the exercises described in their book that can help you have that sense of urgency to start doing the things you love.
If you have a bucket list that you've stowed away in that fictional world of 'someday' because you think you don't have the time or resources to do them or they're simply too big to make them happen, this episode is for you. Our conversation will walk you through the actions you can take to start building a life rich in experiences with no regrets.
Want to Hear More Episodes Like This One?
» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episode
Here's What You'll Learn:
- What it means to be an Experiential Billionaire
- The number 1 regret people have according to a Cornell study
- The number 1 excuse people have for putting things in the 'someday' list
- Why bucket lists often become deterrents to achieving something
- The Memento Mori and Treasure Map exercises and how they can give you a sense of urgency
- The eye-opening result of the survey from more than 20,000 people of all ages and income status and what it tells you
- What the Japanese art of Kintsugai is and what you can learn from it
- How to handle difficult situations when you're actually in it (and not looking back at it)
- How to live a life rich in experiences without breaking the bank
- The real fear people have that stops them from doing the things they want
Useful Resources Mentioned:
Experiential Billionaire: Build a Life Rich in Experience and Die With No Regrets
Ep132: How to Pursue Fulfilling Work and Find Your ‘Calling’ | with Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar
Continue to Listen & Learn
Ep32: Why People Fail And How To Properly Set Your Goals | with Jeanette Goodrich
Here’s Why Over 90% of People Fail to Achieve Their Resolutions
Ep33: Winning at The Ultimate Game of Life | with Jim Bunch
Ep48: Feeling Lost? It’s Time to ‘Find Your Why’ | with David Mead
Ep55: How Tiny Changes Can Create Remarkable Results | with James Clear
Ep94: [CASE STUDY] How to Identify Your “One Thing” and Accomplish It Every Day | Mastermind Q&A
Ep198: Terrified to Make a Big Change In Your Life? Start By “Showing Up Small” | with Eddy Roche
Ep105: Ramit Sethi on Forging The Path Towards Your Own ‘Rich Life’
Guest Bio:
Joe Huff & Bridget Hilton Bridget Hilton and Joe Huff are obsessed with experiences. Determined to unlock the secrets of their power to transform lives, they have spent years interviewing social science experts, conducting the largest study on life experiences ever done, and turning themselves into experiential guinea pigs. Together they have trained to be samurai, danced with the northern lights, tracked silverback gorillas in a hailstorm, stood face to face with hungry lions on safari, absorbed life lessons from Maasai Mara tribesmen, sped across glaciers on dogsleds, built schools for kids in need, studied with monks, helped give 50,000 people hearing, swum with sharks, and explored the experiential riches life has to offer.
Together they have been interviewed on the Today Show, Good Morning America, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, TechCrunch, The Verge, Buzzfeed, Entrepreneur, Monocle, Inc., Fast Company, and The Los Angeles Metropolitan Local News.
Show Credits:
This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.
The original music in the opening and closing of the show is courtesy of Joe Trapanese (who is quite possibly one of the most talented composers on the face of the planet).
1h 19m - Jan 2, 2024 - TOP 5: Optimizing Sleep, Productivity, & Creativity Using Ultradian Rhythms and Self-Tracking | with Dr. Azure Grant
Given the holiday season is ironically when happiness and well-being are often at their lowest and anxiety at its highest, I thought it might be helpful to share with you five of my favorite podcast episodes with some of the world’s foremost experts who can help you stay healthy, happy, and sane through this holiday season.
During the next 5 weeks, you will learn about the importance of movement, how it affects your creativity (and how to sneak it into your crazy day with minimal time), the practice of intuitive eating so you can still enjoy all the holiday food (but without the guilt), how to use mindfulness to keep calm amidst the holiday chaos, and finally how to maintain your sanity by improving the quality of your sleep.
Without further adieu, here is the final part of this five-interview series with Dr. Azure Grant, a sleep & hormone researcher who loves to geek out on sleep & energy biohacks. If you’re looking to better understand your energy rhythms throughout the day and how they affect your creativity, the quality of your sleep, and your well-being, I have no doubt you’ll be just as fascinated by this conversation as I was.
The original show notes for this conversation can be found at optimizeyourself.me/episode189.
If you enjoy this top 5 playlist I invite you to visit optimizeyourself.me/podcast to download your very own customized podcast playlist based on your interests and your goals, curated from our library of over 250 conversations.
1h 24m - Dec 26, 2023 - TOP 5: A Former Monk on Managing Overwhelm (and Following Your Intuition) | with Cory Muscara
Given the holiday season is ironically when happiness and well-being are often at their lowest and anxiety at its highest, I thought it might be helpful to share with you five of my favorite podcast episodes with some of the world’s foremost experts who can help you stay healthy, happy, and sane through this holiday season.
During the next 5 weeks, you will learn about the importance of movement, how it affects your creativity (and how to sneak it into your crazy day with minimal time), the practice of intuitive eating so you can still enjoy all the holiday food (but without the guilt), how to use mindfulness to keep calm amidst the holiday chaos, and finally how to maintain your sanity by improving the quality of your sleep.
Without further adieu, here is the fourth part of this five-interview series with mindfulness teacher and former monk, Cory Muscara. This conversation offers practical advice and tips for integrating mindfulness into your busy life where even 1 minute of practice can help alleviate the anxiety and stress of the holiday season (or any season for that matter).
The original show notes for this conversation can be found at optimizeyourself.me/episode193.
If you enjoy this top 5 playlist I invite you to visit optimizeyourself.me/podcast to download your very own customized podcast playlist based on your interests and your goals, curated from our library of over 250 conversations.
1h 4m - Dec 19, 2023
