Productivity Nerd

Kathy takes a deep dive into gamification and what neuroscience actually has to say about it. In this mini episode, she explores how borrowing tricks from video games and apps like Duolingo can hijack your brain's reward system and make even the most tedious tasks feel genuinely motivating. From points systems and streaks to Pomodoro timers and celebrating micro-wins, Kathy shares four practical hacks to make your to-do list something your brain actually wants to engage with. Serious didn't make you excited about expenses. Stickers might.

In this episode, Kathy and Helen Taylor dig into The 5 Types of Wealth by Sahil Bloom.  Bloom walked away from a high-flying finance career with all the markers of success and a hollow feeling he couldn't explain. This book is what he figured out. Time, social, mental, physical, and financial wealth: most of us spend our working lives chasing the fifth while quietly going bankrupt in the other four. Kathy and Helen get personal about the parents calculation that reframes everything, the pyrrhic victory trap, and whether productivity culture might actually be making the whole problem worse. A thought-provoking, honest conversation about what you're really optimising for.Five types of wealth. Make sure you're not ignoring four of them.

In this mini episode, Kathy Soulsby gets straight to the point on one of the biggest productivity drains in any working week: meetings that should have been an email.  Kathy walks through six practical steps to make meetings genuinely useful, not just shorter. From asking the right question before you even hit "invite," to building a proper agenda, managing the clock ruthlessly, keeping the guest list tight, and making sure actions actually get done. There's also a brilliant bonus tip on open office hours, Cal Newport-style. If your calendar is eating your day alive, take a listen and send an email instead.

In this minipod Kathy sits down with breathwork coach Phoebe Newman of Flown to explore one of the most overlooked productivity tools hiding in plain sight: your breath. They dig into what most of us are getting wrong about breathing, how chronic low-level stress is quietly wrecking focus and decision-making, and why the foundation of high performance might be less about your calendar system and more about your nervous system. Phoebe shares practical techniques for focus, calm, energy, and better sleep, plus the one small breathing change that could have the biggest impact on your day. It turns out the best productivity hack costs nothing and you're already doing it. Just, you know, wrong.Follow Phoebe on Instagram:@phlowspacewww.phlowspace.ukwww.flown.com

In this mini episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy Soulsby shares her six-step "Done for the Day" checklist - a simple end-of-workday ritual designed to give your brain the off-switch it's been waiting for. If your evenings are quietly haunted by half-finished tasks and forgotten Slack pings, this one's for you. Kathy walks through how to capture loose ends, tidy your physical and digital desk, review tomorrow's calendar, and pick the three priorities that'll save Future You from opening the laptop in a panic.Short, practical, and genuinely useful, this is the wrap-up routine that turns a frantic fade-out into a proper finish line.Because "I'll deal with that tomorrow" hits very differently when you've actually written it down.

Kathy and Claire Ennion dive into The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande, and the unofficial subtitle of this episode says it all: why do incredibly smart people still forget the obvious things?Gawande's answer is both humbling and reassuring. It's not about intelligence. It's about complexity. Modern work has too many moving parts, too many steps, and too much cognitive load for any human brain to manage perfectly, even the very best ones. The checklist, it turns out, isn't an admission of failure. It's one of the most powerful tools ever invented.In this episode, Kathy and Claire explore how a simple five-step checklist in a Michigan hospital cut infection rates by 66% and saved over 1,500 lives. How the aviation industry turned near-disaster into safer skies. And how the WHO surgical checklist reduced deaths by 47% across eight hospitals worldwide.But this isn't just a book about medicine and planes. It's about any work that involves complexity, people, and the terrifying potential of a missed step. Client onboarding. Team processes. The junk folder no one checked. The timesheet set up wrong on day one.Kathy and Claire also get into why experts resist checklists (spoiler: it's ego), what makes a good checklist versus a useless one, and how a simple process change can actually shift the way whole teams communicate.Because sometimes the thing standing between you and a really good outcome isn't strategy or skill. It's remembering to check the obvious stuff before it goes wrong.

Do you have 43 browser tabs open right now? One of them is definitely making a noise and you have no idea which one.In this bite-sized episode of Productivity Nerd: The Minipod, Kathy Soulsby tackles Open Tabs Syndrome - the twitchy, brain-scattered habit of hopping between tasks, apps, and windows like a caffeinated squirrel, while actually finishing absolutely nothing.Kathy breaks down why it happens (spoiler: your brain hates unfinished business and will not shut up about it), and shares four practical strategies to close the chaos down:Make your tabs earn their keep - if it's not serving your next 30 minutes, it's goneThe Next Action trick - borrowing from David Allen's GTD to replace vague mental clutter with one clear, doable stepThe Two-Screen Fallacy - why more screens don't always mean more focusPre-planning your digital desk - how to set up tomorrow's focus before today endsShort, sharp, and genuinely useful. If you've ever lost an hour to a mystery audio source and seventeen open LinkedIn tabs take a listen.🎧 Perfect for: productivity fans, freelancers, remote workers, anyone whose browser is basically a second brain that's having a breakdown.

What if the thing tanking your productivity isn't your task list...it's your body?In this episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy sits down with personal trainer and performance coach Duncan Vincent to talk physical energy, movement habits, and why your next productivity upgrade might involve fewer browser tabs and more lunges. They cover cortisol, energy slumps, the "I don't have time" myth, and why movement is a performance tool, not just a gym thing.Ideal for anyone who's tried to power through a to-do list on caffeine and willpower alone. Spoiler: there's a better way.To get more tips and insights, or a session with the man himself you can follow Duncan on instagram or visit his website:@dvpersonaltraininghttps://dvpersonaltraining.com/

In this mini episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy shares a simple reminder inspired by a postcard hanging in her loo:“Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out.”It’s tempting to chase the latest productivity app, gadget, or perfectly colour-coded planner (Kathy is absolutely guilty of this). But real progress usually comes from something much less exciting: quietly showing up and doing the work.From an Olympic shooter who skipped the fancy gear to Stephen King’s daily writing habit, this episode is about the power of relentless consistency over shiny distractions. Short, honest, and reassuring for anyone who’s ever spent four hours researching a new system instead of cracking on.Sometimes productivity really is that simple.

This week on Productivity Nerd, Kathy is joined by Rich Gwilt from Flown - a platform she’s been a member of for years (because even productivity nerds need help focusing).Flown is known for its virtual coworking sessions designed for deep work - structured, intentional time to actually finish something. Not “open 47 tabs and call it research” work. Proper work.Kathy and Rich explore why virtual coworking works so brilliantly, especially for people who technically could focus alone… but mysteriously don’t.They also get into the realities of remote life:– Why homeworking can feel lonelier than we expected – How fully remote, global teams build real connection – Why burnout is such a risk when the commute is 12 steps – Who’s responsible for boundaries (and why “just switch off” isn’t always helpful advice) – How culture quietly drives productivity far more than any shiny new appRich shares what it’s like working inside a fully distributed company, how Flown approaches connection intentionally, and the balance between treating people like adults while still, you know, running a business.It’s thoughtful, practical and reassuring - especially if you’re working from home wondering why you’re both exhausted and slightly isolated.Because productivity isn’t about working longer.It’s about creating the right conditions to focus well… and then closing the laptop without guilt.If you’re a remote worker, leader, or permanently exhausted pigeon with Wi-Fi, this episode will feel very familiar - in the best possible way.To join a Flock visit www.flown.comwww.instagram.com/flownspace/www.linkedin.com/in/richgwilt/

In this mini-episode, Kathy dives into seven practical techniques from bestselling author Daniel Pink that will help you remember more from the books you read - especially non-fiction, business and personal development books. Because let’s be honest, we all adore buying books.We feel wildly optimistic while reading them. And then… poof. The knowledge disappears like a Post-it note in a strong breeze.Inside this short, sharp episode, you’ll discover:– Why you should (brace yourself) “torture” your books – The powerful S&H Method (Summarise and Harvest) for locking in key ideas– How to build a simple “second brain” for book highlights – Why re-reading the right books changes everything – What it means to be a T-shaped reader (and why depth + breadth both matter) – The surprisingly liberating formula for quitting books guilt-free – And why reading is a privilege, not a performance sportThere’s also a small detour via Wuthering Heights, windy moors, and the uncomfortable realisation that teenage romance standards were…questionable.If you love personal development, productivity books, business reading, or simply want to stop forgetting everything you consume - this episode will give you practical, doable strategies to improve information retention without turning reading into homework.For more on this topic, check out Daniel Pink’s YouTube video “How to Be a Better Reader”.https://www.youtube.com/shorts/xaXLPRpJzwM?app=desktop

In this episode of Productivity Nerd, host Kathy Soulsby is joined by “the email whisperer” Kim Arnold, coach, consultant, and author of Email Attraction. Together they dive into the psychology of inboxes, persuasive communication, and why badly written emails are one of the biggest hidden drains on productivity.Kim and her team have worked with major organisations to transform dull, bloated emails into clear, compelling messages that actually get opened, read, and actioned. Because productivity doesn’t just live in planners and colour-coded task lists - it lives in how we communicate.Inside this episode, they explore:The shocking statistic about how long we spend in email (brace yourself)Why most workplace emails are boring, confusing, and wildly inefficientHow unclear emails create unnecessary meetings, endless chasing, and cognitive overloadThe difference between a “meh” email and a persuasive, action-driving oneHow to write subject lines that cut through (including Kathy’s legendary “How are you on Robot Lawn Mowers?”)The balance between clarity and kindness in professional communicationThe emotional weight of managing email, Slack, Teams and WhatsApp all at onceWhy we procrastinate over hitting “send” ...and how to overcome email perfectionismSimple frameworks and habits to write better emails without sounding roboticKim explains why email is where productivity and psychology meet - and how small shifts in tone, structure and persuasion can save hours every week.If your inbox feels more like a swamp than a springboard, this episode will give you practical tools to write sharper emails, reduce overwhelm, and get faster results.Whether you’re a founder, consultant, executive, or simply someone drowning in notifications, this conversation will change how you think about email forever.Go check out Kim's website for more email advice: http://www.email-attraction.comAnd give her a follow over on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/karnoldcomms/

Inbox Zero. Two words guaranteed to make some people twitch.In this mini episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy Soulsby makes a passionate (and slightly sweary) case for why Inbox Zero isn’t the problem...inbox overwhelm is.If you’ve ever opened your email, seen four figures glaring back at you, and quietly closed the tab again… this one’s for you.Kathy shares: Why leaving thousands of emails unread is far more extreme than clearing themA horror story involving a volunteer inbox, zero structure, and a folder optimistically titled “To Do”Why “select all → archive” is not reckless behaviourAnd how treating your inbox like a runway (not a storage unit) can instantly calm your brain There’s talk of haunted inboxes, anxious ghost emails, and why using your inbox as a task manager is like storing your shoes in the fridge - technically possible, deeply unhelpful.Inbox Zero isn’t about perfection. It’s about visibility, sanity, and not living under a pile of unread receipts and vague FYIs.

What do mood swings, motivation dips, and your productivity have in common? Hormones, baby. In this episode of Productivity Nerd, host Kathy Soulsby chats to nurse and clinical hypnotherapist Liz Sherlock about how our hormonal cycles can mess with our mojo - and what to do about it.If you’ve ever wondered why you feel like Superwoman one week and a sentient sock the next, you’re not imagining it. From the gym to the boardroom, hormones like oestrogen, progesterone, and cortisol can have a huge impact on how we work, think, and feel.Kathy and Liz cover: – How to work with your cycle, not against it – The impact of perimenopause and menopause on productivity (hello, brain fog) – Tips for men who live, love or work with women (hint: don’t say “calm down”) – Why ignoring your hormones is like trying to schedule a strategy meeting during “crying over burnt toast” weekWhether you’re tracking your cycle with military precision or just vaguely aware something’s up, this episode offers science-backed advice and practical hacks to stop fighting your hormones and start flowing with them.Because productivity isn’t just planners and Pomodoro timers. Sometimes it’s knowing when to rest, when to push, and when to eat chocolate and hide in a duvet fort.If you want to learn more visit Liz's website: https://sherlockhypnotherapy.com/

Ever feel like no matter how much you get done, it’s never quite enough? Like you're on a hamster wheel powered by colour-coded to-do lists and vague guilt?In this episode, Kathy talks about toxic productivity - that sneaky voice that tells you to "try harder" even when you're running on fumes. We’ll meet the ancient metaphor of the “hungry ghost” (spoiler: it’s not just a spooky concept, it might actually live in your inbox) and explore why modern hustle culture leaves so many of us feeling hollow.This isn’t a productivity pep talk. It’s a gentle, tea-sipping nudge toward ambition without self-punishment. Because yes, you can want more ... without believing you’re not enough.

In this episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy Soulsby is joined by her fellow productivity enthusiast Claire Ennion for a deep dive into Living Forward by Michael Hyatt and Daniel Harkavy. This isn’t your standard self-help hustle fest. It’s about escaping “the drift” - that sneaky slide into autopilot - and creating a Life Plan that helps you live on purpose. They chat legacies (yes, there’s talk of funerals again), life “accounts”, and why your weekly planner might need a spiritual check-in alongside the school run and sales calls.Expect thoughtful takeaways, a few tangents (including haunting people via stationery sabotage), and some very honest reflections on what it means to design your life when life itself feels a bit… unscheduled.

In this bite-sized January episode, Kathy (planner addict, colour-code enthusiast, and long-time hot water bottle evangelist) dives into the art of staying warm without melting your budget.Because it’s 2026, energy bills are still soaring, and frankly no one should have to freeze just to get through their inbox.From USB hand warmers to bubble-wrapped windows (yes, really), this cosy listen is packed with practical tips, historical oddities, and the science behind warm socks and better focus. You'll hear why heating you beats heating the whole house, how to build a “thermal productivity zone,” and what medieval straw-insulated floors have to do with your 3pm slump.Perfect for anyone trying to stay productive, semi-sane, and vaguely defrosted this winter.So, grab a brew (or two), wrap yourself in something fleece-adjacent, and enjoy.Stay warm, stay nerdy...and remember: the only thing that should be frozen in January is the peas in your freezer.

In this episode, Kathy is joined by the marvellous Helen Taylor for what might be the boldest experiment yet: attempting to break up with their phones. Or at least see less of them.Inspired by How to Break Up with Your Phone by Catherine Price, they dive into the weirdly intense relationship we have with our screens. From dopamine doom-scrolling to the panicked need to check WhatsApp mid-Netflix.Together, they explore:– Why our phones are basically clingy exes in our pockets– How they’re quietly trashing our attention spans (and possibly our empathy)– What a 30-day digital detox actually looks like– And which small changes have actually stuckExpect shocking stats (yes, during sex), emotional confessions, and the sort of gentle accountability that only comes from trying to read Deep Work and failing because a dancing parrot popped up.It's not about ditching your phone entirely, more about setting some boundaries, reclaiming your brain cells, and maybe remembering what it’s like to finish a book without checking three apps in between chapters.Until next time: may your notifications be few, your focus deep, and your phone…occasionally face-down in another room.

Hello shiny new year, fresh notebooks, and big plans!In this mini episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy kicks off 2026 with a thought experiment inspired by productivity favourites Ali Abdaal, Will MacAskill (maybe?), and Stephen Bartlett. It’s a bit of a mash-up - like most good ideas - and it all centres around how we spend our time.Think of your hours like casino chips. You get 100 a week (after life’s essentials like sleep, snacks and showers). How are you spending them... and more importantly, would you choose to fast forward through some of them?Kathy introduces the “Fast Forward Test” , a simple but brilliant way to check in with how you’re using your time. Are you speeding through your days like a bad audiobook on 1.8x speed, or are you actually enjoying the moments that make up your life?It’s a gentle nudge to be more present, notice what brings real satisfaction, and maybe tweak the parts of your week that feel more chore than choice.Perfect for business owners, freelancers and permanently exhausted pigeons looking to make 2026 feel a little more intentional.

Nothing says “festive cheer” like a looming tax deadline, right?In this not-at-all-scrooge-y episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy is joined by resident tax whisperer Laura Green for a surprisingly comforting chat about self-assessment. Whether you’ve already filed, haven’t started, or are deep in denial, this one's for you.Expect:📆 The key dates you really shouldn’t ignore💸 What happens if you miss them (brace yourself)📎 Common mistakes people make (and how to dodge them)🧾 When to call in an accountant (or just call it quits and outsource)📬 And what to do if you open your return to find a scary number you can’t payPlus, Kathy shares a cautionary tale about one very lost Government Gateway number, a swearing fit, and a smug dad with two coffees and a completed return.So, if you’d prefer your January to involve less panic and more smugness, pop this in your ears. Filing may not be fun...but it can be a whole lot less faffy.

It’s beginning to look a lot like… planner season! Only joking - in this mini-episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy’s resisting the urge to bang on about her favourite notebooks (again) and is instead diving into a festive round-up of productivity books. Think of it as a Christmas wishlist for nerds. Or a gift guide for that one organised friend who colour-codes their inbox.From timeless classics like Getting Things Done and 7 Habits of Highly Effective People to the broccoli-in-book-form that is Deep Work, this is a whistle-stop tour through the titles that might just help you get your life together in the new year (or at least feel smug reading about how you could).Expect strong opinions, some festive sass, and a reminder that “Eat That Frog” is both a book and a terrible breakfast idea.Whether you’re shopping for yourself or trying to drop unsubtle hints to your loved ones, this episode has your productivity stocking fillers sorted.This episode mentions:Getting Things Done – David Allen7 Habits of Highly Effective People – Stephen CoveyEat That Frog – Brian TracyThe 4-Hour Workweek – Tim Ferriss (brace yourself)Deep Work – Cal Newport (aka productivity broccoli)Atomic Habits – James ClearPlus bonus nods to Michael Hyatt and Leena NormsSnuggle up with a Baileys, embrace your inner nerd, and let’s get bookish.

Hiring a VA isn't just for fancy people with private jets and personal chefs. It's for normal, busy humans who are drowning in emails, double-booking meetings, and Googling “how to add hours to the day.”In this episode, Kathy is joined by two brilliant minds from the virtual assistant world — Amanda Johnson (VA trainer extraordinaire) and Gwen Backhouse (head of the Society of Virtual Assistants, no less) — to bust myths, share war stories, and explain how to actually work well with a VA.We talk about:– Why expecting one VA to be a social media guru and your diary ninja is… optimistic– What makes a dream client (hint: it’s not mind-reading)– How to hire and onboard properly without the dreaded “LinkedIn free-for-all”– Red flags to watch for on both sides– And the future of VA support in a world full of AI and overwhelmed humansIf your to-do list is giving you mild hives, this one's for you.👀 Grab Kathy’s book: How to Work with a Virtual Assistant: Outsource Everything but Your Brilliance🔗 Find Amanda at the VA Training Academy🔗 Find Gwen at the Society of Virtual AssistantsAnd remember: emails, like nettles, grow back the second you turn your back. You don’t have to deal with them alone.

Ever sat down to relax only to be ambushed by a mental to-do list you didn’t ask for? That’s the Zeigarnik Effect in action and in this mini episode, Kathy gets into it.Named after psychologist Bluma Zeigarnik, this psychological quirk explains why your brain keeps circling back to things you haven’t finished (like that half-written proposal… or the dentist form from three weeks ago).In this short and sweet episode, Kathy explores:Why your brain holds onto open tasks like it’s running its own internal tab managerHow writing things down can calm your mindThe surprisingly motivating power of starting just a littleAnd the joy of telling your brain “shutdown complete”If you’re feeling a bit scattered or find yourself thinking about emails at 2AM, this one’s for you.

In this episode Kathy steps away from the serious work books and into something a little more… fluffy. But in a good way. Think less hustle culture, more cleaning your bathroom while your hair mask sets.Joined by Claire Ennion, Kathy chats about Getting Sht Done: Conquer the Chaos, One Small Habit at a Time* by Roo Day — aka @homewithroo on Instagram — a book for people who hate cleaning but enjoy living in a clean-ish house. It’s funny, feminist, full of “bare minimum” tips (feed yourself, water the dog, maybe wipe a surface), and gently life-improving.They talk tiny habits, the mental load of home life, why perfection is overrated, and whether a one-hour speed-clean is the answer to everything (spoiler: sometimes it is). Kathy shares her favourite hacks (hi, shower scrubber) and Claire confesses what might hold her back from reading this kind of book.So if your to-do list includes “get life together” but you're not quite sure where to start, pop the kettle on and join us.Because productivity isn't just for the office — and you don't need to be a domestic goddess to conquer the chaos.

In this mini episode Kathy talks about what happens when you can’t be productive. Because sometimes, life lobs a spanner (or an entire toolbox) into your well-oiled workflow.Whether its illness, caregiving, emotional overload - the sort of stuff that doesn’t fit neatly into a planner. Kathy shares her own tale of working through a slipped disc (spoiler: pomodoros + painkillers = unlikely productivity strategy), and reflecting on what real progress looks like when you’re not firing on all cylinders.You’ll also hear:– Why resting is productive (Stephen Covey would agree)– What David Allen says about feeling good about what you’re not doing– Tiny tools to keep you going when everything feels too much (hello, minimum viable productivity and the “I’m a human” list)If today all you’ve managed is listening to this? Write it down. That’s a win.

This week on Productivity Nerd, Kathy’s voice is croaky (thanks UK germs), but spirits are high because she's talking about a long-time bookshelf survivor: How to Have a Good Day by Caroline Webb.Joined by Helen Taylor — operations oracle and podcast wrangler — they unpack how behavioural science, psychology, and a surprising gorilla can help us have better days at work (and not just on spa retreats or public holidays).Expect:– Why your inbox might feel like a tiger– The sandwich framework of a good day– Tiny shifts that actually do make a difference (no monkhood required)– And why your evening Netflix binge might need a strategic upgradePlus: some heartfelt rants, handy diagrams, and a reminder that your brain is filtering more than you think (including literal gorillas).No magic bullets. Just smart, human stuff to make life feel a bit less like wading through treacle.Stay nerdy. Stay kind. And remember: it’s probably just an email.

In this episode of Productivity Nerd, host Kathy Soulsby explores what it really takes to stay productive when your entire life – and business – moves across borders.Her guest is Vicki Doudelle, a Virtual Assistant who traded UK suburbia for the French countryside, complete with a husband, kids, and a crash course in French bureaucracy. Together, they unpack the real challenges of remote working from another country – from navigating local laws and unreliable WiFi, to maintaining client trust and managing time zones.But this isn’t just an expat story. It’s a conversation about the emotional and practical side of staying focused, motivated, and efficient when everything around you is new – including the lunch breaks.They talk tech tools, cultural curveballs, and how to build work-life rhythms that actually work when you’re far from familiar routines. Whether you’re dreaming of working abroad or just trying to work better from wherever you are, this episode is full of smart tips and gentle honesty about what it takes to build a life and business you actually enjoy.Because productivity isn’t always about squeezing more in. Sometimes, it’s about longer lunches and stronger boundaries.

Can music actually make you more productive? Or will Adele just make you cry into your inbox?In this mini episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy explores the surprising science (and personal quirks) behind music and focus...from thrash metal novelists to upbeat groovy tunes that allegedly boost brainpower.Whether you’re team silence, lyrics, or Vitamin String Quartet covers of the Spice Girls, this one’s for you.Press play, pick a playlist, and see what happens.

In this episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy is joined by the brilliant Paul McGee, author of SUMO: Shut Up, Move On, speaker to over a million people, and master of mind management with a sense of humour.They explore the real meaning behind SUMO (it’s not just “pull yourself together”), the psychology of habits, and why giving yourself a bit of “Hippo Time” might be the most productive thing you do today. Expect bath sulks, beachball metaphors, and a good dose of practical advice wrapped in northern wit.It’s a conversation about resilience, mindset, and why your inner narrative might need a wardrobe change.https://www.thesumoguy.com/

In this mini-episode, Kathy dives into the twice-yearly chaos of the clock change; why we do it, how it messes with our brains (and pets), and what Coldplay has to do with any of it.You'll hear:– Why gaining an hour feels great but doesn’t always work out that way– How our bodies ignore official time and follow the sun instead– A few surprising facts (including grumpy judges and Spanish dinner times)Plus, a gentle nudge for anyone who struggles with SAD: now’s the moment to dust off that daylight lamp.It’s short, nerdy, and just the right amount of useful.

What if the secret to better productivity wasn't time blocking or fancy planners, but working with your brain, not against it?In this episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy is joined by the fabulous Claire Ennion to unpack the surprisingly brilliant ideas in Mind Management, Not Time Management by David Kadavy.Together, they explore how to boost creativity and focus by tuning into your mental state rather than watching the clock. Expect a fun, grounded discussion of:🧠 Clock Time vs. Event Time - and why ideas don’t show up on schedule🌀 The seven mental states (like Ignite, Administrate and Recharge) and how to work with them💡 The four classic stages of creativity...rest is one of them!📍 Why your environment - from lighting to ceiling height -affects your thinking✍️ Slippy vs. Grippy tools (this will make sense, we promise)⏰ And the “First-Hour Rule” that could transform how you start your dayWhether you're a writer, founder, or just someone with a million tabs open (mentally or literally), this episode is full of lightbulb moments. It’s not about doing more, it’s about doing better, and feeling better while you’re at it.

What do baby pandas, fake commutes, and clapping for yourself have in common? Apparently, they're all (very loosely) linked to boosting productivity.In this delightfully odd minipod, Kathy shares the surprising science behind watching cute animals (spoiler: it really can help you focus), and dives into a grab-bag of weird and wonderful productivity hacks from the internet rabbit hole.We’re talking:– 🐼 Why the Wolong Grove Panda Cam might be your new favourite focus tool– 👟 How wearing shoes indoors could switch your brain into work mode– 🎙️ The bizarre magic of narrating your tasks like a cooking show– 🕺 Why doing a celebratory dance after sending an email is totally legit– 🎧 And whether playing one song on repeat is a genius move or pure chaosIf your to-do list feels like a Hydra (cut one head off, three more grow back), this one’s for you. It’s a celebration of small tricks, gentle nudges, and embracing the slightly ridiculous in the name of getting stuff done.Because let’s face it — productivity doesn’t always have to be spreadsheets and time blocks. Sometimes, it’s just baby pandas.Links Mentioned:🔗 Wolong Grove Panda Cam

In this episode of Productivity Nerd, host Kathy is joined by executive coach and seasoned boardroom whisperer Claire Stibbon to talk all things meeting prep. Because let’s be honest most meetings are more “calendar clutter” than “conversations that count”.Together, they dive into the practical (and often overlooked) steps that turn chaotic catch-ups into focused, effective sessions. From clarifying the purpose to knowing who really needs to be there, it’s a goldmine of prep tips for anyone who’s ever thought, “Why am I in this meeting?”Learn:How to spot a meeting that should really be an emailWhat to send in advance (and how to get people to read it)How to show up as a calm, clear-headed contributor—not a flustered, multitasking messWhy time-blocking and energy checks are non-negotiableHow kindness and culture shape better meetingsPlus: some home truths about Zoom backgrounds, rogue underwear, and whether a filter and lipstick can fix a bad connection (spoiler: they can’t, but it helps)A practical, funny, and very human episode for anyone who wants to make meetings suck less...and maybe even enjoy them.http://www.conversationsthatcount.org.uk

In this bite-sized episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy gets into the surprisingly sneaky impact of unfinished tasks...or as she calls them, “pesky little loops.” If you’ve ever ended your day with a foggy head and a vague sense of dread, this one’s for you.Drawing on ideas from productivity legends David Allen and Cal Newport, Kathy explores how vague to-dos (like “LinkedIn” or “Mum”) quietly eat away at your focus, drain your brain juice, and sabotage your ability to rest. And yes, there’s a reason you feel overwhelmed before you’ve even started.Listeners will learn:Why your brain hates unresolved tasksHow to turn fuzzy thoughts into actionable stepsWhy writing things down isn’t just helpful — it’s essentialSimple rituals to help you close loops and end the day with a clear headWhether your task list looks more like a mind map of chaos or you’re just tired of thinking about the same thing on repeat, this mini-episode is a gentle but practical nudge to stop holding everything in your head.Because sometimes, the smartest thing you can do for your productivity is to write it down and walk away.

Ever set a KPI and then instantly regretted it? You're not alone. This week on Productivity Nerd, Kathy gets cosy with KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) — those tricky little metrics that promise focus and progress, but sometimes deliver burnout and box-ticking.She is joined by Angela Peden from HJP Chartered Accountants, who knows her way around business goals, bonus schemes, and how to design a KPI that actually works (rather than one that ruins your weekend).They dig into:What KPIs really are — and how they impact productivity, motivation, and moraleThe biggest mistakes businesses make when setting targetsWhether tying KPIs to pay is genius… or just asking for troubleHow to spot (and ditch) the KPIs that are quietly doing more harm than goodPersonal productivity KPIs — are they helpful, or just another to-do list in disguise?If you’ve ever wondered whether your KPIs are working for you - or you’re just using them to look busy while quietly spiralling - this one’s for you.https://www.linkedin.com/company/hjpcharteredhttps://www.instagram.com/hjpaccountants/ https://www.facebook.com/HJPACCOUNTANTS

Ever heard the word “sprint” thrown around in meetings and nodded like you knew what it meant? Same.In this bite-sized episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy finally got to grips with what a sprint actually is — where it came from (hello, Agile and Scrum), how it works, and why it’s such a powerful tool for focused productivity.Whether you’re a techie, a founder, a freelancer, or just trying to finish something this century, this episode breaks down:✅ What sprints are and where they started✅ How Google Ventures runs a 5-day Design Sprint✅ The pros (focus! momentum! clarity!)✅ And the cons (burnout, anyone?)Plus, some thoughts on when to sprint… and when to slow the heck down.📚 Mentioned: Sprint by Jake Knapp – worth a read if you like structure and speed.Learn how to use sprints for writing, marketing, project work, and beyond — even if you’ve never coded a thing in your life.#SprintsExplained #DesignSprint #AgileProductivity #WorkSmarter #ProductivityPodcast #TimeBoxing #FocusWork #ScrumMethodology #GVDesignSprint #SprintProductivity #PersonallyVirtual #ProductivityNerd #ExecutiveAssistantSupport

Welcome to Productivity Nerd! In this episode, Kathy is joined by the fabulous Helen Taylor - podcast editor, ops wizard, and go-to productivity sidekick - to geek out over one of the greats in the self-improvement world: Atomic Habits by James Clear.They’re breaking down the key ideas: identity-based habits, the power of small tweaks, and why your systems matter more than your goals. Plus, real-life examples (dog cuddles, misplaced sweet treats, and very honest streak-breaking confessions). They cover:-The 4 Laws of Behaviour Change (make it obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying)-Habit stacking (aka the ‘after I brush my teeth, I’ll rule the world’ method)-The infamous Valley of Disappointment (where motivation goes to sulk)-How to not panic when you break a habit streakThis one’s part pep talk, part practical guide, and full of stories you’ll nod along to - especially if your planner is pristine but your habits are more... aspirational.Whether you’ve read the book 12 times or have just Googled “how to be more productive”, you’ll find something here to take away - probably in two-minute form (because yes, they talk about that too).🔔 Subscribe for more episodes where we explore time, energy, and the myth of getting it all done.#AtomicHabits #JamesClear #ProductivityPodcast #HabitBuilding #SmallHabitsBigResults #ProductivityNerd #HelenTaylor #PodcastForBusinessOwners #TimeManagement #SelfImprovement #MindsetShift #PersonallyVirtual

Ever stood in front of your wardrobe like it was a multiple-choice exam you weren’t prepared for? You’re not alone.In this bite-sized episode, Kathy dives into the brain-frazzling world of decision fatigue - the reason you can smash a work presentation at 10am but can’t decide what to have for dinner by 6. From Steve Jobs’ black turtlenecks to Barack Obama’s suit strategy, it’s all about saving your mental energy for the stuff that matters.There’s some light science, some light swearing, and a noble attempt to routinify her weekly petrol top-ups. Whether it’s breakfast choices or wardrobe edits, this episode is a gentle nudge to simplify the small stuff...and maybe reclaim a bit of brainspace in the process.Perfect for anyone who’s ever got decision-paralysis over lunch. (So, all of us.)

What if work actually worked for you?In this episode, Kathy is joined by Lizzie Penny and Alex Hirst-founders of Hoxby and authors of Workstyle: A Revolution for Wellbeing, Productivity and Society. Their mission? To flip the script on how, when, and where we work, so life comes first and work fits around it (yes, even if that means getting your nails done at 9:30 on a Monday).They talk about the “Triangle of Opportunity” that started their movement, why productivity can increase when you work to your own rhythm, and why work needs a total rebrand - from “toil” to something you might actually enjoy. They share their SPR framework, their three golden rules, and how autonomy doesn’t have to descend into anarchy (even when Slack is your office).Expect cocktail references, practical tips, and plenty of examples of how Workstyle is helping people, from freelancers to corporate teams, ditch the 9-5 straitjacket and find a way of working that really works.Links & Resources:– Workstyle book: www.workstyle.org.uk– Hoxby: www.hoxby.com

In this bite-sized episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy walks (well, limps) us through the inbox gauntlet. If you didn’t have a VA lovingly wrangle your email while you were sipping cocktails, fear not — she’s got a plan. Spoiler: it involves paper, triage, and the quiet dignity of starting from the bottom.You’ll learn:– How to time-block like a boss (or at least like someone who deserves a lunch break)– Why starting with the oldest email makes you a productivity archaeologist– What Bacn is, and why it needs a folder of its own– How to channel your inner inbox ER nurse — triage first, surgery laterGrab a cuppa, hide from Slack, and prepare to become a triage wizard. Inbox zero might still be a myth, but feeling 90% less overwhelmed? That’s within reach.

Ever wondered why you reach for a biscuit at 3:30pm… or how a minty toothpaste habit took over America? In this episode, Kathy is joined once again by the wonderful Helen Taylor to dissect The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg, a bestseller packed with psychology, marketing genius, and yes, a surprising number of skunks.They explore how habits form (spoiler: it’s all about cue, routine, reward), why changing just one part of the loop can transform your behaviour, and what Febreze, loyalty cards, and the Montgomery Bus Boycott all have in common.Expect brain science, relatable examples (hello, scroll hole), and plenty of warm, witty chat. Whether you’re battling your biscuit urges or dreaming of becoming a person who actually flosses, this one’s for you.

In this short and snappy minipod Kathy tackles the age-old holiday dilemma: do you check your work emails and ruin the vibe, or ignore them and spiral into anxious FOMO?There’s a smarter third option — delegation. Kathy shares exactly how she preps her inbox for time away, including folder setups, flowchart thinking, and what to do if you don't have a VA (yet). It’s practical, honest, and gently persuasive — perfect for anyone staring down a summer break with 3,000 unread emails and a twitchy right thumb.If “just one quick check” has ever cost you a margarita and a murdery look from your partner, this one’s worth a listen.

In this episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy Soulsby hosts a roundtable with three brilliantly honest, occasionally exhausted mums, Laura Green, Sarah Cheesman and Romaine Howard, to chat all things childcare, chaos and creative coping strategies over the long summer break.While Kathy’s two border collies remain blissfully unaffected by the school calendar, working parents face a different beast entirely: six weeks of juggling, guilt and Google Calendars that look like modern art. From eye-watering camp costs to the emerging trend of “Kid Rotting” (yes, really), they dive into the reality of parenting during a season that seems designed for 1950s farm life, not modern careers.Expect smart hacks, honest confessions, and a few moments of “oh thank god it’s not just me.”If your summer spreadsheet feels more like a military operation than a holiday plan, this one’s for you.

In this episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy tackles a very specific kind of chaos: the “pre-holiday panic”. You know the one — where you're meant to be packing sun cream but instead you're firefighting inbox mayhem and whispering “just one more email” like a caffeinated gremlin.She shares practical, funny and quietly persuasive advice on how to actually step away from work — without the guilt, the germs, or the inbox avalanche.Expect tips on:– Why you should lie (a little) about your out-of-office dates– How to avoid Friday-at-3pm “just before you go” requests– The joy of a buffer day — and a vitamin C habit– And how inbox support can save your holiday — and your sanityPerfect for anyone who’s ever worked themselves into a frazzled heap the night before flying off “to relax”.

This week on Productivity Nerd, Kathy is joined by fellow VA, Helen Taylor, to unpack Feel-Good Productivity by Ali Abdaal—a book that suggests the key to getting more done might just be feeling better while you do it.They dive into why play, power, and people aren’t just nice extras—they’re essential fuel for staying energised. Expect tales of chocolate-fuelled experiments, plate-spinning physicists, rogue onion ring sales strategies, and one very inspirational air stewardess. It’s productivity, but with joy at the centre and guilt firmly shown the door.Ali’s approach? Less grit-your-teeth hustle, more “make it a game, find your fun, and take the damn break.”

In this week’s episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy explores the idea of glimmers — those small, quiet moments that make your nervous system breathe a sigh of relief.They’re the opposite of triggers. A whiff of toast. A stranger’s kind wave. That one perfect pen. These tiny cues of safety and calm can help shift us into a more focused, grounded state — which, as it turns out, is very good news for your productivity.Expect a bit of neuroscience (hello Polyvagal Theory), a sprinkle of psychology, and plenty of practical reasons to start noticing the good stuff. Because when your brain learns to look for glimmers, it finds more of them. And that makes everything — including your inbox — a little easier to face.

This week on Productivity Nerd, Kathy is joined by the magnificent Helen Taylor — Ops VA, podcast wrangler, and the reason this show actually makes it to your ears. They dive into Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker, a book that argues sleep isn’t just for lazy Sundays and luxury spa retreats — it’s essential for, well, everything.They talk memory, creativity, emotional regulation, and why one bad night can make you as sharp as a beach ball. They also cover dodgy academic graphs, nappucinos, and how a tired brain is no one’s friend — especially when it’s driving.Expect questions like:– Should naps be part of your workday?– Is late-night emailing basically workplace sabotage?– And why do we glorify burning out when sleeping in could make us more effective?Sleep might not be the most glamorous productivity hack — but it might just be the smartest one. Especially if you’d prefer not to be an arsey cow in the boardroom.Tune in for a nap-friendly natter with a side of science (and probably some yawns).

In this teeny-tiny episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy pokes gently (okay, slightly sarcastically) at The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod — that perky book that wants you to get up at dawn and do six uplifting things before breakfast.Kathy chats about “SAVERS” (Silence, Affirmations, Visualisation, Exercise, Reading, Scribing), why intentional mornings are powerful, and also why pretending four hours of sleep is totally fine might just be unhinged.A little snark, a little wisdom, and a gentle reminder that no, you don’t need to wake up at 4am to change your life. But skipping snooze might be a start.

What if the secret to getting more done… was caring slightly less?In this episode, Kathy is joined by the marvellous Claire Ennion to chat about Half Arse Human, a book by Leena Norms that’s basically a love letter to doing things imperfectly, on purpose.They cover:– Why perfectionism is overrated (and exhausting)– Bother points: those tiny but mighty obstacles that stall us– Why decision-making is so hard (and a trick to make it easier)– The underrated joy of doing something just a bit, instead of not at all– Plus, why Ernie beats Bert in the battle of sustainable changeThis isn’t about slacking off. It’s about showing up without burning out — and giving yourself permission to do life with a bit more kindness and a bit less martyrdom. Half-arsed, but wholehearted.Perfect for anyone who’s a little bit tired, trying their best, and ready to stop waiting for the mythical “perfect time.”

In this episode of Productivity Nerd, Kathy explores the role of morning rituals in setting up a productive day — without demanding a 4:40am start.From cold plunges to cup-of-tea routines, she looks at why what you do first thing matters, and how even small actions (like making your bed or drinking a glass of water) can give you a sense of control, clarity, and calm before the day runs away with you.There’s also a look at:– The Miracle Morning method (and why it might not be for everyone)– The military-inspired logic behind making your bed properly– Practical ideas for low-effort, high-impact morning habits– And how repeating a ritual turns it into a routine that saves decision-making brainpower later onWhether your mornings start with mindfulness, a gym session, or a sweary espresso in the cold, this episode will help you think about how to make them work for you.