Productivity Lovers: Recent Episodes
Cris Sgrott & Deb Lee
Deb Lee and Cris Sgrott are both leaders in innovative productivity methods and tools and love sharing their knowledge with others. Join them as they share strategies, tips, real-life examples (and more!) on how to become more productive in your work and home environments.
Have a project you’ve been putting off? Need a strong shove to get it done? Deb and Cris have got you covered! In this episode, they delve into extreme strategies you can use to overcome procrastination, like burning money. Literally! The discussion covers unusual “anti-procrastination” apps, methods from authors Jon Acuff and Raymond Chandler, and even a tip… Read More »Episode #30 – Extreme Ways to Fight Procrastination
Have a project you’ve been putting off? Need a strong shove to get it done? Deb and Cris have got you covered! In this episode, they delve into extreme strategies you can use to overcome procrastination, like burning money. Literally! The discussion covers unusual “anti-procrastination” apps, methods from authors Jon Acuff and Raymond Chandler, and even a tip from a well-known comedian. Use this episode as a comprehensive guide to unconventional techniques to combat procrastination so you can get ‘er done!
PSA: Have sensitive ears? Be forewarned -- there is a colorful word or two in this episode. Be sure to use your earbuds if you have kiddos around!
DISCUSSION POINTS
- Commitment apps to help you to overcome procrastination
- "Shocking” method to help you get stuff done
- Using social media as motivation to overcome procrastination
- Ranking the effectiveness of various extreme strategies
- Share what you’re doing, send feedback, rate, and subscribe!
RESOURCES
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Resource List (with all the apps we talked about) https://bit.ly/PLPodcast30Resources
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Book: "Finish" by Jon Acuff https://acuff.me/books/
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Episode #6 - Jon Acuff https://bit.ly/PLPodcast6Finish
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Article: "5 Ways to Stop Procrastinating" https://www.boisestate.edu/coen-mbe/2021/04/20/5-ways-to-stop-procrastinating/
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Have a question or an extreme strategy that works for you? Share it with us! bit.ly/PLPQuestions
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FOLLOW PRODUCTIVITY LOVERS:
FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/productivityLuv
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/ProductivityLuv
WEBSITE: https://ProductivityLovers.com
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CONNECT WITH CRIS & DEB:
Cris' Website -- Organizing Maniacs https://organizingmaniacs.com/
Deb's Website -- D. Allison Lee https://dallisonlee.com/
Cris on Instagram https://instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
Deb on Instagram https://instagram.com/dallisonlee
In this episode, Cris shares a pet peeve -- how annoying “being basic” can be especially when it comes to productivity tips and tricks. And asks the question: What should you do when you’re looking for the “holy grail” of strategies so you can finally boost your productivity BUT all you get is the boring stuff you’ve already heard about? In this discussion, Cris and Deb tease through how you can go from annoyed to productive with "just the basics."
DISCUSSION POINTS
- The pros and cons of basic productivity habits
- Cris and Deb’s “basics” of productivity
- Routines & mindsets that match your work day
- The basic thing that helps “procrastination brain” and “hyperfocus”
- Do your productivity tools need to look good in order for you to use them?
- Share what you’re doing, send feedback, rate, and subscribe!
RESOURCES
Episode #21 – Have You Experienced Hot Potato Productivity? https://bit.ly/PLPodcast21HotPotato
Episode #5 – Do You Pomodoro? https://bit.ly/PLPodcast5Pomodoro
Planner by Diane N. Quintana https://dnqsolutions.com/
Trainual SOP & Training App https://trainual.com/
Have a question or a “basic” tip that works for you? Share it with us! bit.ly/PLPQuestions
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FOLLOW PRODUCTIVITY LOVERS:
FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/productivityLuv
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/ProductivityLuv
WEBSITE: https://ProductivityLovers.com
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CONNECT WITH CRIS & DEB:
Cris' Website -- Organizing Maniacs https://organizingmaniacs.com/
Deb's Website -- D. Allison Lee https://dallisonlee.com/
Cris on Instagram https://instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
Deb on Instagram https://instagram.com/dallisonlee
In this episode, Deb and Cris discuss the importance of self-care for parents, especially mothers. They share personal experiences and insights on balancing motherhood and work, emphasizing the need for a strong support system and meaningful relationships beyond the parent-child dynamic. Cris and Deb explore self-care strategies for busy moms and the essential role it plays in maintaining productivity.
DISCUSSION POINTS
- Cris’ AARP membership and Seasonal Affectation Disorder
- What is “Mom Neglect?”
- How can you balance motherhood and work?
- Strategies to help parents feel more in control and productive
- Mom or Dad? Who is more able to maintain self-care?
- Taking time for oneself- self-care ideas
- Parenting and self-care challenges
- Should you hire help or seek support?
RESOURCES
- PLP Episode 25: My 3 Favorite People https://bit.ly/PLP3FavePeople
- Finding You: An Evoke Therapy Podcast by Dr. Brad Reedy - Episode 244 - Healthy Detachment: https://apple.co/3pimIsp (We mentioned Dr. Becky but it was really Dr. Brad!)
- The NYT Article: Neglecting Yourself Doesn’t Make You a Better Mother by Danna Lorch https://www.nytimes.com/2021/02/10/parenting/self-care-moms.html
- Submit Your Questions to Productivity Lovers Podcast: bit.ly/PLPQuestions
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FOLLOW PRODUCTIVITY LOVERS
FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/productivityLuv
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/ProductivityLuv
WEBSITE: https://ProductivityLovers.com
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CONNECT WITH CRIS & DEB
Cris' Website -- Organizing Maniacs https://organizingmaniacs.com/
Deb's Website -- D. Allison Lee https://dallisonlee.com/
Cris on Instagram https://instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
Deb on Instagram https://instagram.com/dallisonlee
In this episode, Deb and Cris dig into a listener question submitted through their survey form (link below in “Resources”). The question centers on using sticky notes to write to-do lists. Cris and Deb go through the pros and cons of sticky notes and share some stories about clients who were extreme sticky note users and savers. They aslo offer some tools and solutions to stop the chaos and help you keep track of those little pieces of paper.
Discussion Points:
- What is ‘junk’ to an organizer?
- Do you have to stop using sticky notes to capture your to-dos?
- Ways to organize your note and find them easily
- Apps + digital notebooks to help you save and organize all your notes
- How to name your digital lists so you can find them quickly
- Tech tools and their assistance in naming files
- Show us what you're using for your tasks!
Resources
- Have a question or hot topic you want us to cover? SHARE IT: https://bit.ly/PLPQuestions
- Listen to the PLP Time & Task Management Episode: https://bit.ly/TaskTimeMgt
- Tag us on IG to show what you’re using for your task list! https://instagram.com/ProductivityLuv
FOLLOW PRODUCTIVITY LOVERS:
FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/productivityLuv
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/ProductivityLuv
WEBSITE: https://ProductivityLovers.com
CONNECT WITH CRIS & DEB:
Cris' Website -- Organizing Maniacs https://organizingmaniacs.com/
Deb's Website -- D. Allison Lee https://dallisonlee.com/
Cris on Instagram https://instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
Deb on Instagram https://instagram.com/dallisonlee
Author and podcaster Chris Brogan (“The Backpack Show”) begins each year by selecting 3 words with which he frames all of his activities and choices for the year. Deb and Cris disclose their three chosen words for 2023 (Deb has only found 2 so far), share how they chose these particular words, and what they mean to each other personally.
You’ll hear how these words will help them frame decisions and choices that they make, how they will say yes or no to projects, and how choosing three words can help you be more productive by shaping the rest of your activities throughout the year (especially if 2023 hasn't turned out the way you planned so far).
Discussion Points:
- Personal update and a note about ChatGPT
- Chris Brogan - chooses three words each year to frame his perspective
- Deb and Cris' 3 words
- How can three words help you be more productive?
Resources
- Chris Brogan: My 3 Words (YouTube: https://bit.ly/3nF8ZLx | Blog Post: https://bit.ly/3m14jz4)
- Book: Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand In the Sun and Be Your Own Person https://amzn.to/3Mktzei
- Books by Jon Acuff: https://acuff.me/books/
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FOLLOW PRODUCTIVITY LOVERS:
FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/productivityLuv
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/ProductivityLuv
WEBSITE: https://ProductivityLovers.com
CONNECT WITH CRIS & DEB:
Cris' Website -- Organizing Maniacs https://organizingmaniacs.com/
Deb's Website -- D. Allison Lee https://dallisonlee.com/
Cris on Instagram https://instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
Deb on Instagram https://instagram.com/dallisonlee
If money wasn’t an object, would you hire a specific person (or persons) to manage some of the stuff of life?
In this episode, Deb and Cris fantasize about having “3 favorite people” who would free up some of their time and contribute to their overall well-being.
You’ll hear what kinds of tasks these “helpers” could take off their plate, and what Cris and Deb would do with all their new-found free time. Listen to this episode to hear all about it and share who your 3 favorite people would be.
Discussion Points:
- Clappers, sunshine, and plants
- Celebrating two years of the Productivity Lovers podcast!
- Deb and Cris share who their 3 “helpers” would be (plus a couple bonus people!)
- Small (and doable) ways to gain more time so you can focus on other things
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FOLLOW PRODUCTIVITY LOVERS:
FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/productivityLuv
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/ProductivityLuv
WEBSITE: https://ProductivityLovers.com
CONNECT WITH CRIS & DEB:
Cris' Website -- Organizing Maniacs https://organizingmaniacs.com/
Deb's Website -- D. Allison Lee https://dallisonlee.com/
Cris on Instagram https://instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
Deb on Instagram https://instagram.com/dallisonlee
Are you falling victim to the fear of things not being perfect? Do you procrastinate because you don’t have the right organizing tools or containers? Cris and Deb are here to let you know that it doesn’t all have to be perfect!
In this episode, you’ll hear about a client named “Carol” (not her real name) who was completely stuck and couldn’t move forward with her organizing project because (you guessed it) things weren’t exactly as she wanted them to be.
Don’t let this happen to you. Listen to this episode to learn about simple things you can do overcome perfectionism so you can get stuff done. Remember, you can call us if you need help!
Discussion Points:
- Marriage, Disney movies, and Type A people
- “Carol and The Perfect Container”
- Are you on one of the 4 roads that lead to procrastination?
- How do you handle your perfectionist tendencies?
- The one thing you Cris and Deb think you should do right now to stop perfectionism in its tracks
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FOLLOW PRODUCTIVITY LOVERS:
FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/productivityLuv
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/ProductivityLuv
WEBSITE: https://ProductivityLovers.com
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CONNECT WITH CRIS & DEB:
Cris' Website -- Organizing Maniacs https://organizingmaniacs.com/
Deb's Website -- D. Allison Lee https://dallisonlee.com/
Cris on Instagram https://instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
Deb on Instagram https://instagram.com/dallisonlee
Is there one person on your work team that doesn’t pull their weight? Or the one whose energy brings everyone down? Do you cringe when they walk into the room or get a sinking feeling when you receive an email from them?
In this episode, we’ll discuss the “lazy coworker” and “toxic teammate.” And we’ll share advice about how you on how to handle these tricky team members. Have your own tips that have worked for you? Tell us!
Discussion Points:
- So, you’re the boss. How do you manage the lazy employee or toxic person who sucks the energy out of the room?
- What if you’re not the boss? Deb shares some tips about what to do if you’re not the team leader
- Cris shares a personal experience working at a corporate job and the specific things she did to address the toxicity at work
- Does remote work allow people to be more productive because they don’t have to deal face-to-face with toxic or unproductive people? (Sidebar: Are you really more productive at home or do you get really distracted?)
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FOLLOW PRODUCTIVITY LOVERS:
FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
INSTAGRAM: https://instagram.com/productivityLuv
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/ProductivityLuv
WEBSITE: https://ProductivityLovers.com
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CONNECT WITH CRIS & DEB:
Cris' Website -- Organizing Maniacs https://organizingmaniacs.com/
Deb's Website -- D. Allison Lee https://dallisonlee.com/
Cris on Instagram https://instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
Deb on Instagram https://instagram.com/dallisonlee
Do you wear a Fitbit smart watch, Apple Watch, or some other wearable device? If so, you won’t want to miss this episode! We’re talking about how helpful these devices are to our productivity. And whether or not they can cramp your productivity style.
You’ll hear about Deb’s experience with her own Fitbit and Cris’ hesitation (and slight desire) to buy one.
Discussion Points:
-Pros and cons of a fitness tracker or smart watch
-At what point is it too much?
-Should you stop wearing it once you’ve reached your goal?
-Will Cris join the Fitbit crew?
Resources:
-Episode 11 - Results of “No Phone Sunday” https://bit.ly/38QOap0
-Productivity Lovers Website https://productivitylovers.com/
-Productivity Lovers Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
-Organizing Maniacs’ Website https://organizingmaniacs.com/
-Deb Lee’s Website https://dallisonlee.com/
-Productivity Lovers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/productivityluv/
-Cris Sgrott on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
-Deb Lee on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dallisonlee/
There are probably two types of people in this world, those who can engage in “Hot Potato Productivity'' and those who do not. “Hot Potato Productivity” refers to one’s ability to stop what they’re working on for non-emergencies, such as taking a walk, getting a snack, or answering the phone.
It’s easy for some and harder for others. In this episode, we share perspectives from both sides and share some tips on how you can easily transition between tasks.
We’ll also include a link to our free download: “Top 5 Ways to Successfully Transition Between Tasks” in the Resources section below.
Discussion Points:
- Why it takes to time to get back in the groove after distractions
- How you can prevent 90% of distractions
- What to do if you’re not a “Hot Potato” person
Resources
”Hot Potato Productivity” Poll - share your thoughts! https://forms.gle/gqQK8FdjifAXvnoMA
Top 5 Ways to Successfully Transition Between Tasks https://productivitylovers.com/Hot-Potato-Productivity/
Productivity Lovers Website https://productivitylovers.com/
Productivity Lovers Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
Organizing Maniacs Website https://organizingmaniacs.com/
Deb Lee’s Website https://dallisonlee.com/
Productivity Lovers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/productivityluv/
Cris Sgrott on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
Deb Lee on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dallisonlee/
Do you ever feel like you have to always keep it together? And show no signs of weakness and successfully juggle it all? We sometimes feel that way. And we’re wondering, how do you ask for help when people, yourself included, expect nothing but greatness?
We’ll tell you how in our new episode and it has nothing to do with being hard on yourself.
Discussion points:
-How many tasks should you complete in a day?
-Tailoring your tasks
-Do personal tasks count as priority tasks?
-Aiming for excellence vs perfection
-What should you do when you have a perfectly imperfect day?
Resources:
-Big a$% sticky note https://amzn.to/3DO6Ocx
-Productivity Lovers Website https://productivitylovers.com/
-Productivity Lovers Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
-Organizing Maniacs’ Website https://organizingmaniacs.com/
-Deb Lee’s Website https://dallisonlee.com/
-Productivity Lovers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/productivityluv/
-Cris Sgrott on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
-Deb Lee on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dallisonlee/
In today’s episode, we’re discussing “productivity avoidance.” That sounds bad, doesn’t it? This is the term we’ve given to situations where you are being productive – which is great! Except you’re “getting all the things” done so that you can avoid dealing with difficult problems, people, or conversations (insert your difficulty here). Because who hasn’t organized their pantry to avoid having a difficult conversation with that family member, right?
Join us for this provocative conversation inspired by Brene Brown’s audiobook “The Power of Vulnerability.”
Discussion Points:
-What productivity avoidance looks like
-Should you do something about it?
-How to resolve a situation before it spirals
-Can productivity be negative?
Resources:
-The Power of Vulnerability https://brenebrown.com/book/the-power-of-vulnerability/
-Productivity Lovers Website https://productivitylovers.com/
-Productivity Lovers Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
-Organizing Maniacs’ Website https://organizingmaniacs.com/
-Deb Lee’s Website https://dallisonlee.com/
-Productivity Lovers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/productivityluv/
-Cris Sgrott on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
-Deb Lee on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dallisonlee/
We’re back with another episode of the Productivity Lovers Podcast! This week, we’re talking about planners. Is a paper planner more useful than a tech tool? What are the pros and cons of using an app or a set of apps? Whether you love planners or hate them, you’ll want to tune in.
Discussion Points
-Life updates with Cris and Deb
-Cris’ New Year intentions vs. reality
-What to do if you don’t use your planner regularly
-Benefits of both paper planners and digital calendars
-Evernote https://bit.ly/Evernote_Deb
-Productivity Lovers Website https://productivitylovers.com/
-Productivity Lovers Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
-Organizing Maniacs’ Website https://organizingmaniacs.com/
-Deb Lee’s Website https://dallisonlee.com/
-Productivity Lovers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/productivityluv/
-Cris Sgrott on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
-Deb Lee on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dallisonlee/
In this week’s episode, we’re talking about accountability partners and accountability groups. We all know that telling someone about our goals helps us stay on track but if you’ve never heard of an accountability group or never thought about joining one, you may change your mind after this conversation. Don’t miss out on learning more about this awesome productivity booster!
Discussion points:
-How many accountability groups does Cris belong to?
-Deb’s favorite tech tools for tracking goals
-Where can you find an accountability partner?
-Benefits of having accountability
-What to look for when choosing a person (or group) to keep you accountable
Resources:
-Evernote https://bit.ly/Evernote_Deb
-Basecamp https://basecamp.com/
-Any.do https://www.any.do/
-Productivity Lovers Website https://productivitylovers.com/
-Productivity Lovers Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
-Organizing Maniacs’ Website https://organizingmaniacs.com/
-Deb Lee’s Website https://dallisonlee.com/
-Productivity Lovers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/productivityluv/
-Cris Sgrott on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
-Deb Lee on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dallisonlee/
What the heck is “cumulative punishment?” In this week’s episode, we explore what it is and how it can affect not only your productivity but your mental health as well. This will be especially helpful to you if you often are very critical of yourself when you miss a deadline or fail to accomplish a goal. We share tips on how to be more kind to yourself during times of stress and how you can get support while figuring out what went wrong.
Discussion points:
- The interesting thing Cris does before every episode
- What is cumulative punishment?
- How Cris and Deb show themselves some compassion
- The 3 step process of experiencing cumulative punishment
- What’s a Ta-Da list?
Resources:
-Productivity Lovers Website https://productivitylovers.com/
-Productivity Lovers Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
-Organizing Maniacs’ Website https://organizingmaniacs.com/
-Deb Lee’s Website https://dallisonlee.com/
-Productivity Lovers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/productivityluv/
-Cris Sgrott on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
-Deb Lee on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dallisonlee/
In today’s episode, we discuss the necessity of meetings. Cris and Deb agree that not all meetings are particularly necessary and spending time in a meeting that’s not relevant to you when you could be doing something else is a sure-fire way to get nothing done. As the pandemic rumbles on and some of us are nearing our century Zoom call, we wanted to share some tips on how to maximize the productivity of a meeting.
Discussion Points:
- What put Deb in a ‘poopy mood’
- Cris’ days as the ‘meeting patrol’
- Best practices for a productive meeting
- How to get out of a meeting you don’t need to be in
- Apps that make meetings a little easier
- Who hoards their meeting notes?
Resources
Robert’s Rules of Order https://robertsrules.com/
Fellow.App https://fellow.app/
Evernote https://bit.ly/Evernote_Deb (Deb’s referral link)
Adobe Scan https://www.adobe.com/acrobat/mobile/scanner-app.html
Scannable https://evernote.com/products/scannable
Productivity Lovers Website https://productivitylovers.com/
Productivity Lovers Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
Organizing Maniacs’ Website https://organizingmaniacs.com/
Deb Lee’s Website https://dallisonlee.com/
Productivity Lovers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/productivityluv/
Cris Sgrott on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
Deb Lee on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dallisonlee/
In today’s episode, we discuss Manoush Zomorodi’s book “Bored and Brilliant - How Spacing Out Can Unlock Your Most Productive and Creative Self” and talk about some of the interesting statistics and challenges around technology, how much we use our smartphones, and what this might be doing to our brains.
Manoush is the host of NPR’s TED Radio Hour and a co-founder of Stable Genius Productions. She is also the co-host and co-creator of ZigZag, the business podcast about being human. Last but not least, Manoush created, hosted, and was managing editor of the podcast Note to Self in partnership with WNYC Studios, which was named Best Tech Podcast of 2017 by The Academy of Podcasters.
Discussion Points:
- Cris’ expanding family and more changes at Deb’s house!
- The Bored and Brilliant 7-Day Challenge
- The benefits of just letting your brain wander
- What research says about the impact of social media on your working memory
- The stats on how many times we change tasks during time spent online
- The “shocking” results of what happened when people in a locked room got bored
Resources
- Book: “Bored and Brilliant” http://www.manoushz.com/book
- ZigZag Podcast https://zigzagpod.com/
- Productivity Lovers Website https://productivitylovers.com/
- Productivity Lovers Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
- Organizing Maniacs’ Website https://organizingmaniacs.com/
- Deb Lee’s Website https://dallisonlee.com/
- Productivity Lovers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/productivityluv/
- Cris Sgrott on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
- Deb Lee on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dallisonlee/
Today we go back in time to remember a moment where Deb felt like she went off the rails a little bit with her emotions after a particularly negative interaction with a plumber at her home during renovations.
We talk about what she did to deal with those emotions, both in that moment and throughout the minutes and hours after in order to remain productive. We also answer our very first listener question.
Discussion Points:
- The “Poopy Plumber” story
- Ways to deal with emotions when trying to be productive
- Coping strategies to help you in difficult moments
- Listener question answered: How to become “Magically Productive”
Resources
- Submit Your Questions https://bit.ly/PLPQuestions
- Productivity Lovers Website https://productivitylovers.com/
- Productivity Lovers Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
- Organizing Maniacs Website https://organizingmaniacs.com/
- Deb Lee’s Website https://dallisonlee.com/
- Productivity Lovers on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/productivityluv/
- Cris Sgrott on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
- Deb Lee on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dallisonlee/
We jump right into Cris’ recent close encounter with a major pet peeve: constant reminders! We also try to figure out why we, as a society, now need to be reminded about every appointment -- often several times. We discuss the vicious cycle that seems to require multiple texts, emails, phone calls, and nudges all in an effort to get us to show up where we’re supposed to be when we’re supposed to be there.
As you know, we love all things related to productivity, and today’s chat makes us question whether reminders help or hinder our ability to get things done -- and more importantly, to simply be responsible.
Discussion Points:
- The problem with the constant need for reminders
- Are reminders even necessary?
- Learning to be responsible - where it starts
- What reminders mean to Cris and Deb
- Are people who need reminders irresponsible?
- Has technology made us more reliant on reminders?
Resources
- Productivity Lovers Website https://productivitylovers.com/
- Productivity Lovers on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
- Organizing Maniacs (Free Training Fridays) https://organizingmaniacs.com/online-diy/free-training-fridays/
- Deb Lee’s Website https://dallisonlee.com/
Today is the day! We are catching up and sharing how our “No Phone Sunday” challenge went. We both had a different experience and it may surprise you what we missed the most during our 24-hour phone fast.
While neither of us had a perfect day, we both walked away with a renewed sense of how important disconnecting from our screens is. At the same time, we also realized that these devices can serve a good purpose in our daily lives.
We highly recommend having a regular “no phone” day and sharing your feedback with us!
Discussion Points:
- The Mission Recap: No Phone For 24 Hours
- How it went for Deb and Cris on “No Phone Sunday”
- Deb’s mega-list of things she would have done if she had her phone
- Was it worth it to do the 24-hour phone fast?
- The pros and cons of “always connected”
- Our key takeaways and what we would have done differently
- Shout out to participants and winners of the Amazon GC giveaway!
Resources
- Productivity Lovers Website https://productivitylovers.com/
- Productivity Lovers Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
- Organizing Maniacs Website https://organizingmaniacs.com/
- Deb Lee’s Website https://dallisonlee.com/
- Book -- Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29502354-rest
- Productivity Lovers on Instagram https://instagram.com/productivityluv
- Cris Sgrott on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theorgmaniacs
- Deb Lee on Instagram https://instagram.com/dallisonlee
In today’s episode, we analyze another Netflix home organization show! We had great fun chatting about Marie Kondo’s Netflix show a few weeks ago, so we’re doing it again today with the show “The Home Edit."
Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin are the dynamic duo behind this series and the founders of the home organization business behind it. They always end up with beautiful-looking homes and spaces - real eye-candy for us productivity lovers.
But is what they do organizing or containerizing? Do they help clients keep too much stuff? Does it matter?
We have all the questions! We also talk about the similarities and differences between this show and “Tidying up with Marie Kondo.” And we share our personal opinions on whether the method they use is sustainable or not - especially for people with kids.
Discussion Points:
- Introduction to the Home Edit
- Following rules?
- Knowing your organization limitations
- The Home Edit vs Marie Kondo’s approach
- Final thoughts on the Home Edit
- How important is maintenance after you have gotten your space organized?
Resources
- Productivity Lovers Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
- Organizing Maniacs (Free Training Fridays) https://organizingmaniacs.com/online-diy/free-training-fridays/
- Deb Lee's Website https://dallisonlee.com/
- The Home Edit Website (Episodes) https://www.thehomeedit.com/shop-the-netflix-episodes/
- Marie Kondo Website https://konmari.com/
- Productivity Lovers Website https://productivitylovers.com/
In this latest episode, we share our thoughts on the KonMari method of organizing. This is the method that was conceptualized by Marie Kondo -- the now famous, Japanese organizing queen.
She has gained much of her popularity, thanks to two best-selling books and starring in the Netflix reality series, “Tidying Up with Marie Kondo.” And it’s this series that gets us chatting about how much of what you see is real, and how much is simply produced for entertainment value.
The premise of the KonMari method is “Does it Spark Joy?” and we discuss how legitimate that is as an organizing method. Afterall, happy people are productive people, right?
Discussion Points:
- Marie Kondo - Netflix Show
- Marie Kondo’s Books
- Types of people and organizing styles
- Is an organized space a productive space?
- The benefits of having an organizing system
- Will you get the same results as the people who use the KonMari Method?
Resources
- Marie Kondo - The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up
- Marie Kondo - Spark Joy
- Tidying up with Marie Kondo Netflix Trailer
- The KonMari method
- Productivity Lovers Facebook
- Michael McIntyre - People with kids have NO IDEA!
- Organizing Maniacs (Free Training Fridays)
-
Deb’s Website
-
https://amzn.to/3ldr13I
- https://amzn.to/2WL2R7x
- https://youtu.be/WvyeapVBLWY
- https://konmari.com/about-marie-kondo/
- https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers
- https://youtu.be/eC6eHraeMes
- https://organizingmaniacs.com/online-diy/free-training-fridays/
- https://dallisonlee.com
Today we take on device addiction. We all have some level of addiction to our phones especially people like us who use our phones to help us be more productive.
We delve a little deeper into some of the reasons why reliance on our devices has become a problem. And acknowledge that we're not immune!
We both know that we use our phones a lot and thought we'd compete with each other. So we decided to do a little challenge. Listen to today's episode to learn more and join us for "No Phone Sunday!"
Discussion Points:
- The strange things people are willing to give up just to have their phones
- Setting boundaries for using your phone
- Is your phone a good tool or a device of distraction?
- The Challenge: "No Phone Sunday" on September 26, 2021
Resources
- Productivity Lovers Facebook
- Organizing Maniacs (Free Training Fridays)
-
Digital Detox: 7 Days to Unclutter Your Phone and Build Better Mobile Habits (The Phone Cleanse)
-
https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers/
- https://organizingmaniacs.com/online-diy/free-training-fridays/
- https://dallisonlee.com/digital-detox/
Generally speaking, if you don’t mind us saying it ... rules RULE! We love rules especially when they help us manage our time better. But we also know that if they are too restrictive, they can get in the way of productivity.
In this episode, we elaborate and build on a previous episode where we discussed the very strict rules of the Pomodoro time management method, and chat about a few of the rules that exist in the productivity field and the pros and cons of each.
(P.S. Yes, those are renovation sounds from Deb's kitchen project that you're hearing in the background!)
Discussion Points:
- The benefits of rules and how they can help
- Five popular productivity rules
- Rule of Three
- OHIO
- The 2-Minute Rule
- The Pairing Rule
- "End of the Work Day" Rule
Resources
- Productivity Lovers Facebook
- Do You Pomodoro?
- Organizing Maniacs (Free Training Fridays)
-
Deb's website
-
https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers/
- https://productivitylovers.com/podcast/episode-5-do-you-pomodoro/
- https://organizingmaniacs.com/online-diy/free-training-fridays/
- https://dallisonlee.com
Today we get into the nitty-gritty details of a few of our favorite task management apps. We both share a great fondness for writing down things that we need to remember.
But having a digital version of “writing things down” that also includes a reminder when that task is due … well, THAT is just a Productivity Lover’s dream!
We chat about all the different apps we’ve used over the years and why we have stuck to some and why others just didn’t work. We also share some of the features we like so that you make an informed choice when choosing your next task management app.
To get the links to every app we discussed in today’s episode, CLICK HERE or scroll down for the link.
Discussion Points:
- Cris and Deb’s thoughts on apps
- Which one’s better for task management: Paper or Tech?
- 11+ productivity and task management apps to get stuff done
- The Asana Unicorn
Resources
- Productivity Lovers Facebook
- Organizing Maniacs (Free Training Fridays)
- Turn To-Do Into Done With Tasks
- Links to all apps
-
Deb’s website
-
http://productivitylovers.com
- https://www.facebook.com/Productivity-Lovers
- https://organizingmaniacs.com/online-diy/free-training-fridays/
- https://evernote.com/blog/turn-to-do-into-done-with-tasks/
- https://bit.ly/PLPodcast8 (links to all apps & resources)
- https://dallisonlee.com
Both Deb and Cris are in the middle of two different but equally tough life transitions. Deb is dealing with her home renovation and Cris is figuring out the intricacies of moving into a house with her new partner and children … situations that are proving to be just as stressful and mentally draining for these two productivity lovers as it is for the average person. Arguably they may be struggling more, thanks to their strong desire to have everything in order.
Cris and Deb share how they have each been navigating this time of transition -- sometimes more successfully than other times. Today’s episode acknowledges that change is easy to underestimate and can easily catch you off-guard. But it’s important to find your way back to some semblance of a routine as soon as possible to ensure your sanity survives the process.
(And, yes, Deb really does wash apples and Cris has been remembering to use her deodorant!)
Discussion Points:
- Updates on Cris and Deb’s life changes
- Can you really be productive during times of change?
- 7 simple ways to manage moments of transition and change
- 1 thing to keep in mind when things feel overwhelming
Resources:
- Productivity Lovers website
- Productivity Lovers Facebook Page
- Book: “ADD-Friendly Ways to Organize Your Life” by Judith Kolberg and Kathleen G. Nadeau Ph.D.
- Organizing Maniacs (Free Training Fridays)
-
Deb’s website
-
http://productivitylovers.com
- https://www.facebook.com/Productivity-Lovers
- https://amzn.to/3emqN6x
- https://organizingmaniacs.com/online-diy/free-training-fridays/
- https://dallisonlee.com
Cris Sgrott and Deb Lee are your Productivity Lovers. You may have heard Cris rave about the book “Finish” by Jon Acuff in a previous episode.
In today's episode, Cris shares how she came across the book and why she found it to be such an impressive read. Of course, Deb has been similarly impressed by this read and they decided to spend an entire episode of the podcast on what they each took away as learnings from the book.
The author makes some great suggestions in the book and Deb and Cris share how they have been able to actually implement some of these suggestions.
This book emphasizes the idea of ensuring that you prioritize AND FINISH things that are important to you and avoid the things in your life that aren’t. This - along with not letting perfectionism hold you back from making progress are some of the great topics Cris and Deb tackle.
Discussion Points:
- How Cris came across the Book “Finish”
- Introducing the author Jon Acuff
- The premise of “Finish”
- The villain that stops you from finishing projects and how to stop it
- 3 tips from the book that will help you finish
Resources
- Productivity Lovers Facebook
- Organizing Maniacs (Free Training Fridays)
- D. Allison Lee website
- Finish - Give Yourself the Gift of Done (Book)
- https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers/
- https://organizingmaniacs.com/online-diy/free-training-fridays/
- https://dallisonlee.com
- https://www.amazon.ca/Finish-Give-Yourself-Gift-Done/dp/1591847621
Do you find yourself wishing you could be more productive but not sure where to start? Cris Sgrott and Deb Lee, your podcast productivity gurus, jump into today’s discussion about the Pomodoro Time Management Technique. They share some thoughts on the benefits that they have personally experienced while working in this particular way. Cris and Deb have each used this technique and found it valuable - even though they both worked with a modified version to suit their lifestyle - just like you should if you need to. They chat about coffee, naps, and coffee-naps… Who knew those existed, right? But they do - and they could be an amazing trick up your productivity sleeve.
Be in the know and become better at organizing your life by learning from the best in this episode of Productivity Lovers.
Discussion Points:
- The Pomodoro Technique
- Alternatives on the technique
- Use break as Reflection time
- Taking Naps during the workday
- Coffee Naps
- Pzizz
- Pomodoro time-blocks
- How to get started with the Pomodoro technique
Resources
- Productivity Lovers Facebook
- Organizing Maniacs (Free Training Fridays)
- The Pomodoro Technique
- Francesco Cirillo
- Pzizz Nap App
- Finish - Give yourself the gift of done (Book)
Cris Sgrott and Deb Lee are both going through major life changes - Cris is moving house and Deb is renovating her kitchen. They are both struggling to deal with the pressure of things around them be so disorganized - knowing that they both make a living out of helping people organize their lives. Both of them find themselves dealing with these changes and stresses differently and in today’s episode they talk about the highs and lows of dealing with big changes like these in life.
Discussion Points:
- The upheaval of building and moving
- Dealing with change
- What is your "Productivity Binky?"
- The one thing that can keep you steady and focused
- How language can impact productivity
Resources
- Productivity Lovers Facebook
- Organizing Maniacs (Free Training Fridays)
- Cris Sgrott had an unfortunate time-management disaster this week - making her late for the episode recording. But as they say - “Every dark cloud has a silver lining…” and her ‘dark’ day, brought about this week’s episode discussion where Cris and Deb come up with some really helpful advice about how to tackle bad days and moving on from them. The key being, to remain focused on the things that are going well and working on the problematic things one at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Discussion Points:
- Can you really do it all? Difficulties with managing all the elements of life
- How to pick what you spend your time on, on a daily basis
- Randi Zuckerberg's book
- How to manage your whole life - 2 simple things to do now
- Do you have an anchor?
- How to fix bad habits and create change in your life**Resources**
- Productivity Lovers Facebook
- Organizing Maniacs (Free Training Fridays)
- Pick Three: You Can Have It All (Just Not Every Day)
- James Clear - Atomic Habits
- Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day (title inspiration for today’s show)
+ Meditation apps
* FitBit
* Calm
- https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers/
- https://organizingmaniacs.com/online-diy/free-training-fridays/
- https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Three-Have-Just-Every/dp/006284282X
- https://jamesclear.com/atomic-habits
- https://amzn.to/3ib0djQ
- https://fitbit.com
- https://calm.com
Cris Sgrott and Deb Lee jump headfirst into a pretty controversial subject in the productivity world - achieving “Inbox Zero”.
However minimalist such an inbox promises to be, both Deb and Cris agree that it is an endless battle. In today’s episode, they share some of their experiences and opinions on striving for Inbox Zero along with alternative ways to organize your email that may be surprisingly satisfying in their own right.
Discussion Points:
- Reasons Deb and Cris don’t believe in “Inbox Zero”
- How Deb and Cris manage their inboxes
- About Snoozing and Boomerang
- Inbox Zero works for certain people
- Do whatever works for you
- More about Gmail features that help organize inbox
- Make sure Inbox Zero will actually help you
Resources
- Productivity Lovers Facebook
- Organizing Maniacs (Free Training Fridays)
- Q&A Link?
The Productivity Lovers, Cris and Deb are back in this - their first official episode of Productivity Lovers! They talk through a few interesting points to consider if you are struggling to manage your time and regularly end your day with unfinished tasks. They point out how to use distractions to your advantage and share some valuable resources, tips and tools that may help you get the most out of your day and ensure that you are able to plan better and accomplish your goals with time to spare.
Cris and Deb are both specialists in productivity and helping people become more organized in their day-to-day life. They have many years of experience between them that make them fantastic mentors in this regard. Managing your time and tasks better will relieve stress and in turn improve your quality of life - what’s not to love about that?
Discussion Points:
- The relationship between task- and time management
- Focus on your energy - not the task
- Figure out how long certain tasks take you to complete
- Track time
- The difference between task- and time management
- Helpful tools to use
- The Importance of developing time awareness
Resources
- Productivity Lovers Facebook
- Organizing Maniacs (Free Training Fridays)
- Time Tracking Worksheet
- The Power of When (Book)
-
When (Book)
-
https://www.facebook.com/ProductivityLovers/
- https://organizingmaniacs.com/online-diy/free-training-fridays/
- https://dallisonlee.lpages.co/free-time-tracking-worksheet/
- https://thepowerofwhen.com/
- https://www.danpink.com/books/when/
In this very first episode of Productivity Lovers, your hosts, professional organizer, Cris Sgrott and Digital Productivity Coach, Deb Lee introduce themselves, how they met, and the “why” behind this podcast. They are both passionate about helping people get organized and be more productive. They, after working together on another project, realized that they have a wealth of knowledge that needs to be shared.
They give us a general overview of the direction they plan on taking with the podcast in upcoming episodes. The duo allude to having some interesting guests lined up and also share details about the webinar that sparked the whole idea behind this podcast. There is some great content to look forward to along with interesting conversations around productivity, time management, and tech tools in the coming weeks!
Discussion Points:
- How Deb and Cris met
- The webinar that started it all (and link to watch)
- Upcoming topics in the podcast
Resources
- Productivity Lovers Facebook Page
- Organizing Maniacs -Free Training Fridays (watch the webinar)