ThinkWORKS: Because Thinking Is The Hardest Work There Is.

This week, Chris and I conclude our look at the pulp heroes and their importance to everything from Star Wars to Batman to Dune. This episode looks at planetary romance, swords and sorcery and space heroes- Conan, John Carter, Solomon Kane, Flash Gordon, Buck Rogers and many more. So pull up a chair and join us for high adventure!Join in the discussion at https://revolutionradio.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/community/channels/ThinkWORKS----Recent.-6aJNXw/posts/6a538abf830b524af9a29572

As we bring Phase 1 in our series of episodes based on You 2.0 to a close, this episode pulls together a series of tools and shows how they fit together.As ever, join in the discussion at https://revolutionradio.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/community/channels/ThinkWORKS----Recent.-6aJNXw/posts/6a49119c2eb852b4672c5b45

Don't worry, this is NOT about diversity policies... but rather about why you as individuals, business owners, senior managers or project leaders should seek to surround yourself with different voices.Join in the discussion at https://revolutionradio.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/community/channels/ThinkWORKS----Recent.-6aJNXw/posts/6a4235d773b57ccc9b58e65c

When should you push through a problem and when should you redesign the system or process? This episode discusses how to identify which action to take and poses three simple questions to help get you started.Join in the discussion HERE. 

What if the resistance you're feeling isn't a sign to stop? What if it's showing you where the growth is?This week on ThinkWORKS, Darren Smithson explores the idea of Productive Friction—why struggle, resistance, and difficulty are often part of the process rather than evidence of failure. From creativity and learning to personal growth and change, discover why what's hard might matter more than you think.Drop in your views or examples at https://revolutionradio.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/community/channels/ThinkWORKS----Recent.-6aJNXw/posts/6a2aac4a1e47ce8dca32af40

Sometimes, you really don't feel like you can give it your best. That's when you need systems to help support you on your off days. This episode explains why and gives some examples of how.Join in the discussion at https://revolutionradio.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/community/channels/ThinkWORKS----Recent.-6aJNXw/posts/6a2aad6f2f880bca831130cc

What if the systems that change your life don't look like systems at all?This week on ThinkWORKS, I explore the quiet rhythms, habits, and structures that sit behind everything I create—from books and podcasts to blogs and projects.No productivity hacks. No 4am miracle routines. No optimisation obsession.Just simple, sustainable systems that keep working when real life gets in the way.Join in the discussion HERE!

Why do so many modern systems feel exhausting, overwhelming, and impossible to keep up with?This week on ThinkWORKS, Darren Smithson explores why loud systems often fail quiet people — and why reflection, depth, and sustainable thinking are becoming increasingly valuable in a world built around constant noise, urgency, and reaction.Because sometimes the strongest systems… are the quiet ones.Join in the discussion at https://revolutionradio.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/community/channels/ThinkWORKS----Recent.-6aJNXw/posts/6a0f0c735f79583cb9de3aa3

This week, we revisit some of the ideas in my book You 2.0 and tease out an underpinning support structure- those quiet systems that aren't big or sexy, but simple, progress making routines that can save the day when we're not feeling at our best.Join in the discussion HERE and tell us your quiet systems.

Almost everyone has heard of 'Atlantis' but how many fully understand the story behind what has become the greatest 'lost civilisation' legend of all time. Join Darren and regular guest Steve Lowe as they discuss where the legend came from, what it all means, and what, if any, lesson Atlantis teaches us today. Join the discussion HERE!

What if you’re not stuck… just catching up?This episode explores identity lag and how real change settles over time—if you don’t interrupt it.Join in the discussion at Join in the discussion at https://revolutionradio.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/community/channels/ThinkWORKS----Recent.-6aJNXw/posts/69f334335b39191fc1d0ccc6

This week, we look at 'the vision thing'- why having a vision IS important in business AND life, and WHY so many visions aren't worth the paper they are written on.Join in the discussion at https://revolutionradio.app.clientclub.net/communities/groups/community/channels/ThinkWORKS----Recent.-6aJNXw/posts/69ee7bd7f5d56f842fe9c6f0

You’d think finishing a book would be the hard part.For me, it wasn’t.Publishing it was.In this episode, I talk about the moment I nearly stalled You 2.0—and the idea of identity lag that came out of it.That gap between what you’ve done… and who you feel ready to be.It’s something I now see everywhere—and it’s where a lot of progress quietly gets stuck.Join in the discussion HERE!

Why does motivation fade — even when you start strong? In this episode of ThinkWORKS, we explore identity lag — the gap between who you are and who you’re trying to become, and why lasting change often breaks down.If you’ve ever struggled with consistency, discipline, or building better habits, this episode reframes the problem — and shows why motivation alone isn’t enough.Because real change doesn’t come from pushing harder… it comes from aligning your behaviour with an identity that can sustain it. Join the discussion HERE.

Why does change feel fake at first?Have you ever tried to improve something in your life…Started doing the right things… showing up differently……and still felt like you were just pretending?Like it’s not really you yet?That uncomfortable gap between: who you’ve been and how you’re now acting 👉 That’s what I’ve been exploring this week in ThinkWORKS — something I call Identity Lag.Join in the discussion HERE!

The Shadow. Doc Savage. Sexton Blake. Sherlock Holmes. The Avenger. The Domino Lady. The Phantom.They sold millions of copies, and were the Netflix of their era, and yet very few people know about them or understand just how important they were for every superhero that followed.This is the first part of our discussion on pulp comics, as Darren Smithson & Chris Dingsdale discuss the action heroes and why they are so important.(Part Two will follow later in the year and discuss the sword & sandal tales (Tarzan, Conan, Solomon Kane etc), and the scientific heroes (Flash Gordon, John Carter, Buck Rogers etc).Join in the discussion HERE.

 Not every workplace problem starts at the top. Sometimes the biggest barrier to progress is how we choose to respond to change. In this episode, we explore the difference between constructive challenge and destructive resistance — and ask a simple question: Are you helping the system… or holding it back? Join in the discussion HERE! 

The phrases we repeat to ourselves shape far more of our lives than we realise.In this episode of ThinkWORKS, Darren explores the hidden power of habitual language — the words and phrases we quietly repeat in moments of challenge, doubt, or decision. Drawing on psychology, neuroscience, and everyday experience, he explains why these mental scripts influence our motivation, resilience, and perception of failure.This isn’t about simplistic “positive thinking.” It’s about understanding how our brains internalise repeated language and how we can consciously replace limiting phrases with ones that reinforce learning, growth, and perspective.From the idea that “I never fail so long as I learn” to practical ways of identifying and changing negative self-talk, this episode offers a powerful reminder that the stories we tell ourselves can either trap us — or set us free.Join in the discussion at Community

Based on my book You 2.0: Build Yourself Better, this episode discusses why making sure you have (or you are) the right person in the right job is crucial- not only in business, but in family and community lives as well.Comment with your thoughts HERE!

 Technology promised us freedom. Instead, it blurred the line between work and life. In Episode 101 of ThinkWORKS, I examine the cost of constant interruption, the illusion of urgency, and the small behavioural shifts that can dramatically improve both productivity and wellbeing. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/de771046-95b3-4e66-94e4-a0c526451ef6

Episode 100 — What Hasn’t ChangedOne hundred episodes in, it’s tempting to talk about progress.Instead, this episode asks a quieter question:What hasn’t changed?Over time, projects evolve. Language sharpens. Confidence grows. But underneath all of it, certain questions remain constant. The work of thinking carefully. The tension between perfection and progress. The discipline of building deliberately rather than reacting quickly.This episode isn’t a celebration. It’s a reflection.On why I still do this. On what continues to matter. On the difference between movement and meaning.If you’ve been listening for a while, this is a moment of consolidation. If you’re new, it’s a good place to begin.Because sometimes the most important progress isn’t in what’s new — it’s in what endures.Come and join me in https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/060de405-74dd-4ea6-b929-d072b8d3afb8

The mysteries of the Unexplained are back in our series within a series, as host Darren Smithson is joined by regular guest Steve Lowe to discuss the power and awe of the Pyramids of the world, considering why were they build, how were they built, and does Pyramid Power truly exist! Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/6677a02f-29fd-4439-bbea-a94a30103a54

In this episode of ThinkWORKS, Darren explores Chapter 9 of You 2.0: Build Yourself Better — Labelling the Point — and why the words we use matter far more than we realise.From internal self-talk to leadership communication, Darren examines how language quietly programmes behaviour, shapes culture, and influences decision-making. The episode looks at how careless labels create resistance and misunderstanding, while intentional language can build clarity, trust, and momentum — in both personal and professional life.A reflective and practical exploration of why changing your words can be the first step to changing outcomes.Buy my book 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better' in both Kindle and Paperback versions from Amazon or your favourite stores.Join the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/f56ade9c-1f10-478d-bb91-28f30af0f340

You don’t lose credibility because people disagree with you. You lose it when you don’t use what you promote.In this week’s ThinkWORKS podcast, I unpack why walking the talk isn’t a cliché — it’s the foundation of trust, identity, and leadership.If your actions don’t match your message, people feel it. 🎧 Chapter 8: Walk the Talk | You 2.0Join the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/a57d91dd-c07e-4d38-8078-45cd3daa6701#Leadership #Integrity #AuthenticLeadership #ThinkWORKS

Most people don’t fail because they lack motivation — they fail because they’re waiting to feel ready.In this episode of ThinkWORKS, I introduce the idea of the Actionaut: someone who treats action as exploration, not urgency. We explore why small, deliberate action improves wellbeing, restores agency, and creates clarity — even before results show up. If you’ve been stuck between thinking and doing, this one’s for you. Comment with your answer from the small exercise in the episode at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/c1c100aa-d126-4b86-9b16-d2f0f88d34ae

Most leadership failure doesn’t come from incompetence — it comes from fear. Fear of losing control. Fear of empowering others. Fear dressed up as authority.In this episode of ThinkWORKS, I explore why the best leaders lead from the back, why macho management quietly destroys organisations, and how a single question — “How can I help?” — can transform teams, cultures, and results.We look at why “busy” isn’t productive, how empowerment actually increases accountability, and why trust is the missing ingredient in modern leadership.If you manage people, work in a team, or want to build something that lasts — this episode is for you. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/1381b500-0151-4ce9-950d-86ccfa4ed5bf

 Most New Year resolutions don’t fail because people lack motivation — they fail because intent never becomes structure. In this episode of ThinkWORKS, I explore how to make resolutions that actually stick by starting with vision, defining where you want to be by year’s end, and then working backwards into realistic steps and milestones. We look at why planning isn’t about rigidity or control, but about clarity, momentum, and choice — and why writing things down still matters more than most people realise.If you want this year to feel different because you thought differently, this episode is for you. Join in the discussion  at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/f264ef36-961a-4187-b556-255bc0e31262.

Most people don’t fail because they lack motivation — they fail because they never turn intent into a plan. In this episode of ThinkWORKS, I unpack Chapter 4 of You 2.0: Build Yourself Better — Have a Plan — and explore why plans aren’t about rigidity or control, but about creating momentum, choice, and resilience in a messy world. We look at why vague goals keep us stuck, how simple planning sharpens thinking without killing creativity, and why a good plan should guide you rather than trap you. If you’ve ever felt busy but not progressing, inspired but unfocused, or capable but stalled, this episode is for you. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/1320cd11-ef02-430a-99a0-4eccd35a1df5 or do the 'Take A Bite Tuesday exercise which lands in the You 2.0 chatroom every Tuesday.

Suspend Your Disbelief – Why Belief Comes Before ChangeEver notice how fear quietly talks us out of trying, long before we fail? In this episode, I explore why self-belief isn’t fluff — it’s the foundation of every meaningful change. We look at how the brain avoids pain, clings to old stories, and convinces us we’re “not that good anyway.” You’ll learn how to suspend disbelief, borrow confidence from your own past wins, and act as if — just long enough to get moving. Because before you can change your world, you have to start by believing you can.Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/46dcf561-f0f7-437d-8b7b-23be7a820951

Before comic shops. Before collectors. Before anyone thought this stuff mattered. In this episode of ThinkWORKS we go to issue 3 of our Adventures in Comics mini-series, and head back to 1970s Britain — to newsagents, spinner racks, and the thrill of the hunt. From The Mighty World of Marvel to DC’s The Shadow, we explore how UK kids discovered comics by chance, not design. It’s a story of pocket money, persistence, and the moment comics stopped being disposable… and started becoming part of who we are. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/4e4d86c5-dd0d-41fd-856c-d5a4a09a6d3a

Sometimes, you just can't beat going back to basics. Starting with a blank piece of paper and a nice lovely pen to organise your world, you can quickly see patterns and ideas and declutter your mind in a way that a 100% digital approach just cannot match. And this simple fact is also the reason why 70% (yes, SEVENTY) of digital projects fail.Come and join me as I explain what sparked off this episode in the first place, what some of the wider ramifications of bad planning are, and how to avoid the same mistakes.And check out the Forum post at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/20535766-fcab-404b-a8cb-54bf3e9a461f for links to my favourite hard bound journal and my new life planner, and share your own anecdotes and thoughts.

In the final part of our look at how to get the most from the new generation of A.I. apps, we look at some tips, hacks and strategies (along with prompts) to use in three areas of your business and personal life. I also then go step by step, again including the prompts, of how I used A.I. to compact 6 months of book planning, formulation, breakdowns, design and everything else connected with starting a book, into half a day!All the prompts in this episode, along with a 90 Day Sprint Plan example discussed in the episode, will be added to the Comments on the post at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/ebe2a3f0-909b-4ee8-85da-f2ca76ae3d9d

This week, I look at the key takeaways from day 3 of a recent A.I. Summit, and give some practical steps and hack to take to start to not only get to grips with the new generation of A.I. apps but begin to apply them. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/301b5e66-3040-4c67-824e-7b8939742083

Continuing on from last week, we move away from the foundational concepts for practical use of modern A.I. and into real-life uses for business owners, entrepreneurs and organisations looking to implement A.I. This episode considers the approach, the specific apps and how you can get the A.I. to actually help you ask the A.I. better questions! There will be some sample prompts and real-life answers (for my business and radio station) AND you can join in the discussion, at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/d34be94b-1fbb-4cc1-ab89-3d8d7df4a377

At a recent A.I. conference, a stark warning was issued: A.I. won't replace you, but someone who uses A.I. more effectively than you might. Over the next 3 episodes I'm going to explore some of the key concepts and strategies and give practical usage tips on how you can use A.I. to make your business and personal life easier, more productive and create real value.  Join in the discussion and explore some of the activities mentioned in this episode at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/3ff3e886-a865-4576-84f4-3036c3b4b236

In 1905 and in 1915, Einstein revolutionised scientific understanding of the forces that govern the universe and this episode seeks to unpick both Special & General Relativity, explaining the what, why and how, and examines the massive contributions they made not just to the scientific communities, but also to you in your day to day life. Join in the fun at  https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/bfc8a50d-0927-48b6-973b-5f38c53cd05f and ask questions, give your own examples of how relativity is used in modern life or ways that relativity can be explained!  

From my new book 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better', comes a new Principle, and the story of how the chapter and Principle came into being IS the best example of how the Principle works! The book is out on December 1st but you can have a sneak peek at this idea and strategy now. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/7d18ec01-70dc-48c7-ba05-72d9fe805884  and share your examples of AHA moments and successes from failures.

This episode discusses my 'big idea', namely how we should set up a self-sustaining 'Utopia Village' (c) of businesses, entrepreneurs, artists, musicians, learning centres, community groups, social enterprises and local service providers, why they can help with impoverished areas and towns, and how they can be used to raise the aspirations of communities who are feeling left behind. There will be an accompanying white paper in the connected Forum post at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/5f449ede-62b4-4cc7-95e6-c2df744b5e30

* Note, the word true is used advisedly due to the deep rabbit hole you could go down discussing the Human Fly!In a world where the line between reality and spectacle blurs, emerges a hero clad in mystery and daring deeds—The Human Fly! Join us on an electrifying journey as we delve into the enigmatic life of the man who defied gravity, thrilled millions, and left an indelible mark on the world of stunts and beyond.Episode Highlights: The Origins: Discover the incredible backstory of 'The Human Fly,' a tale woven with intrigue, survival, and the relentless pursuit of the extraordinary. Daredevil Feats: Relive the breathtaking stunts that captivated audiences worldwide, including the legendary motorcycle leap over 26 buses! Behind the Mask: Uncover the truth about Rick Rojatt, the elusive persona believed to be behind the mask, and the myths that fueled his larger-than-life image. Cultural Impact: Explore the ripple effects of his stunts on popular culture, from comic book pages to, potentially, the silver screen. The Unfinished Symphony: Hear the untold stories, including the tantalizing rumour of a rock album that never saw the light of day. Prepare for a deep dive into the life and legacy of a true daredevil—a man whose life was as thrilling as the stunts he performed and discover the unique blending between comics title and real life (and back again!) . Tune in to unravel the mystique of The Human Fly, where every leap is a leap into legend!Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/fbd42df6-bfb8-403c-b7c9-76e25d40eab1(Art for The Human Fly is by Al Migrom and copyright Marvel Comics)

From my new book, 'You 2.0: Build Yourself Better', comes this discussion on Principle 12: The Round Table Principle! In it we look at what the Principle entails, how and why it both a cultural and technological process, and what benefits it can bring to any organisation, large or small. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/cf66f126-76d9-436a-a916-1818b73f85b5 

Based on a chapter in my new book You 2.0: Build Yourself Better (out November 1st), this episode discusses why it is important to never blindly follow the opinions of experts, and instead you should also conduct your own research so you at least know the basics about the area you need to make a decision in. You can also join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/6c4559b1-24a7-454f-9d8b-70a5d9e60115Please note there is an occasional pop in the first couple of minutes of this episode (the intro only), but after that the sound is fine.

Concluding our two part look at how technology is changing the face of education, we look at the increasing role of science and technology to help level up learning opportunities around the world.Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/06d4d518-3791-45cc-b567-19031c6b6615

With rapid advances in A.I., Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality solutions, Western world countries are poised to reap the benefits of bringing the future into classrooms. We look at some of the major schemes, policies, advantages and disadvantages of rolling out these technology into the classroom, but also look at the limiting effects of a narrow curriculum focus on students once they leave the educational years.There will be a follow up to this episode soon looking at the roll out of technology in other regions of the world, but for now, you can join in the discussion on this episode at  https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/400af221-1179-402b-aece-85110e2b0a21

They were 'the NEW House of Ideas' who burst on the scene in 1975 with a full range of colour comics, black & white magazines and supporting merchandise. They challenged the status quo, changed the rules and... imploded within a year. Join guest Chris Dingsdale and I as we reminisce and discuss the launch, the titles, the fun, the chaos, the reasons for failure and the legacy of the company that is about to relaunch with a new range of titles, movies and merchandise! Join in the discussion and see some of the covers at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/3d7d336c-86d9-4ad2-9381-cfb21a2a4a12

Time to nerd out with a look at three ground-breaking consoles/home entertainment systems that failed to engage despite being backed by major companies. What were they? Why did they fail? What is their legacy? Find out as we discuss the fate of the 3Do, the CDTV and the CD-i whilst also sharing personal experiences of the platforms. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/838bf239-a676-4269-94fb-34835fa30ac9 and tell us your experiences with them and your views on why they didn't succeed.PS The Atlas Comics at 50 will be Monday 15th now- all explained in this episode.

In our concluding look at the impact of social media, we examine how it has changed societal and behavioural norms, and wonders what can we do to bring social media technology back to what it was originally intended to do without stifling debate and activism (a question which will need further consideration at a later date). In the meantime, join in the discussion about social media with your own suggestions of how we boost the positive benefits of social media whilst negating the serious downsides social media platforms have propagated in the last decade. You can do this at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/4973a6f6-0c60-4a7e-a911-7b16760c0ba3

In this episode we look at the impact of social media on mental health and give some little hacks to help protect yourself or people you know, from the constant attentions that social media platforms seem to demand of their users.Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/8bec9001-a30d-414e-8e97-dde4896e0eeb

This week we take a look at social media and the impact it has had on communication, privacy and safety. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/ebd6967d-6b69-4756-935c-1c7a7842e6b2Please forgive the scratchy voice, I was under the weather when I recorded it.

We've discussed consciousness as part of our Philosophy 101 episodes, but we've specifically referred to 'the hard question of consciousness' in our recent episodes on panpsychism and Many Worlds Interpretation of Quantum Mechanics, so this delves into what the question is, why consciousness is proving so hard to define as a process, and what are the important thought experiments that can help us at least define the question. Join in the discussion at https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/42369516-ab07-4f08-8f81-cf6c1a081ed1

After a few heavy subjects, it's now time for a total nerdfest episode as I journey through adventures with Atari computers, look at how the company began, give my assessments as to why Atari failed, and explain why I still have and use my STe, Mega STe, TT and Falcon computers to this day! And all without rubbishing the Amiga! You probably won't have a clue as to why that last bit is important (well, not unless you give this episode a listen), so let's just say I did warn both Atari and Commodore, and their fans, that things needed to change if they wanted to survive. Clearly, they didn't listen...Join in the nerdiness at  https://www.darreninform.com/forum/2-thinkworks-voiceworks/discussion/951112e0-cc85-4f34-b978-15f65f0d739c and tell me your favourite computing platform from yesteryear and why (but be kind to fans of the competitor brands please!) and share your anecdotes of your time using them!