https://theproductivewoman.com/ A podcast intended to help busy women find the tools and the encouragement to manage their lives, their time, their stress, and their stuff so they can accomplish the things that matter most to them. Wed, 25 Mar 2026 06:58:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 Blubrry PowerPress/11.15.9 https://feeds.podcastmirror.com/theproductivewoman Laura McClellan episodic Laura McClellan lauramctx@yahoo.com © 2014–2026 Laura McClellan © 2014–2026 Laura McClellan podcast https://feeds.podcastmirror.com/~images/2123801702579264.jpeg https://theproductivewoman.com TV-G Royse City, Texas Royse City, Texas Weekly Weekly 84c76724-c0cb-54ba-a103-882de7b88168 https://theproductivewoman.com/values-based-planning-heart-before-calendar-tpw514/ Wed, 25 Mar 2026 06:58:41 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12262 A full calendar doesn’t always mean a meaningful life. This week we explore values-based planning — a thoughtful approach to organizing your time around what matters most, so your schedule reflects your priorities and your life moves in the direction you truly care about. Laura McClellan 514 514 Values-Based Planning: Heart Before Calendar full 32:59 https://theproductivewoman.com/the-one-hour-organizing-sprint-tpw513/ Wed, 18 Mar 2026 06:44:22 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12250 Organizing often feels like something that requires a full weekend, lots of energy, and a perfectly clear schedule. But for most busy women, that kind of time is hard to come by. In this episode of The Productive Woman, we explore a simpler, more approachable strategy: the One-Hour Organizing Sprint. By focusing on a small, clearly defined space for just one hour, you can make meaningful progress without overwhelm. Laura McClellan 513 513 The One-Hour Organizing Sprint full 22:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/quarterly-planning-the-90-day-year-for-real-life-tpw512/ Wed, 11 Mar 2026 06:15:13 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12241 Annual goals can feel overwhelming. Weekly plans can feel reactive. But 90 days? That’s a timeframe that allows for meaningful progress — without pretending life won’t change. In this episode of The Productive Woman, we explore how to use quarterly planning as a realistic, flexible, and values-aligned way to move what matters forward. Laura McClellan 512 512 Quarterly Planning: The 90-Day Year (For Real Life) full 35:04 https://theproductivewoman.com/the-stories-we-tell-ourselves-about-productivity-tpw511/ Wed, 25 Feb 2026 07:27:50 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12231 Productivity isn’t just about planners, calendars, and systems. It’s also shaped by the quiet stories we tell ourselves — about who we are, what we’re capable of, and what it means to “do enough.” This week we explore how our internal narratives influence our habits, confidence, and choices — and how gently revising them can change everything. Laura McClellan 511 511 The Stories We Tell Ourselves About Productivity full 28:17 https://theproductivewoman.com/where-things-go-creating-simple-homes-for-the-stuff-you-use-every-day-tpw510/ Wed, 18 Feb 2026 07:36:41 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12217 When the things we use every day have a place to go, life runs more smoothly, decision fatigue decreases, and daily stress softens. In this episode, we explore a simple but powerful organizing principle: giving everyday items a clear, logical home. Laura McClellan 510 510 Where Things Go: Creating Simple Homes for the Stuff You Use Every Day full 29:22 https://theproductivewoman.com/time-blocking-for-real-life-flexible-systems-for-busy-women-tpw509/ Sat, 07 Feb 2026 02:10:35 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12206 Time blocking is often talked about as a strict, rigid way to organize your day — but for busy women managing responsibilities, interruptions, and shifting energy levels, it needs to be flexible, supportive, and intentional. In this episode, we explore how to use time blocking in real life — not as a rigid schedule, but as a flexible system that helps protect what matters most. Laura McClellan 509 509 Time Blocking for Real Life: Flexible Systems for Busy Women full 37:39 https://theproductivewoman.com/the-enough-equation-knowing-when-youve-done-enough-today-tpw508/ Wed, 21 Jan 2026 07:43:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12189 Many of us end the day tired, busy, and still feeling like we didn’t do enough. The to-do list isn’t finished, there’s always more that could be done, and rest can feel undeserved. In this episode of The Productive Woman, we explore a different way of thinking about productivity — one that helps you decide when to stop, without guilt, and recognize when enough really is enough. Laura McClellan 508 508 The Enough Equation: Knowing When You've Done Enough Today full 30:39 https://theproductivewoman.com/decluttering-with-purpose-not-pressure-tpw507/ Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:13:10 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12177 Decluttering often shows up early in the year — and so does pressure. Pressure to clean, organize, simplify, or “get your life together.” In this episode of The Productive Woman, we take a different approach. Instead of decluttering out of guilt or obligation, we talk about decluttering with purpose — using your values, priorities, and current season of life as your guide. Laura McClellan 507 507 Decluttering with Purpose, Not Pressure full 30:06 https://theproductivewoman.com/a-gentle-restart-getting-back-into-routine-after-time-away-tpw506/ Wed, 07 Jan 2026 09:30:50 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12162 Getting back into a routine after time away can feel harder than starting from scratch. Whether your break was planned or unexpected — a sabbatical, illness, caregiving, burnout, or simply life — restarting often comes with pressure, guilt, and unrealistic expectations. Photo by tatonomusic on Unsplash In this episode of The Productive Woman, we explore a gentler, more compassionate approach to restarting routines, one that honors where you are now and helps you rebuild momentum without overwhelm. In this episode, we talk about: Why restarts often feel emotionally and mentally difficult The role of expectations (and “shoulds”) in making restarts harder than they need to be Why you don’t restart where you left off — you restart where you are How to reset your expectations before resetting your schedule What a “minimum viable routine” really looks like The power of choosing one small anchor habit instead of rebuilding everything at once How anchor habits create confidence and continuity Why urgency sabotages restarts — and what to use instead How to rebuild routines with compassion rather than pressure A simple Gentle Restart Framework you can use this week The Gentle Restart Framework: Choose one anchor habit you can do consistently Schedule one short planning check-in (10–15 minutes) Add one act of self-support to make restarting easier Reflection questions from this episode: What expectations am I carrying that no longer fit this season? What does “enough” look like right now? If I could do just one small thing consistently this week, what would it be? What do I want more of — and less of — in this season of my life? Remember: You’re not behind — you’re beginning Consistency comes after kindness Productivity isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what matters Resources mentioned: Download the Gentle Restart Worksheet Articles worth looking at: Urgency, Intention, and Inner Peace — Autumn McKenzie (38) Post | LinkedIn The Minimum Viable Routine: How To Make A Personalized MVR & Transform Your Life - A Destiny By Design | by Destiny Olivia What's Your Minimum Viable Routine? - by Sarai Mitnick (38) The Minimum Viable Routine: Everybody Has a Plan Until They’re Punched in the Mouth | LinkedIn How to Create a “Minimum Viable Routine” for Tough Times | Motivation Why Your ‘Perfect’ Morning Routine Might Be Setting You Up for Failure | by Lakshmi Jyotsna | Medium The Problem With "Should" Statements - Central Valley Family Therapy Letting Go of the 'Shoulds': Releasing Unrealistic Expectations in Mental Health and Life - Genesis Counseling Instagram The Tyranny of “Shoulds” - The Summit Counseling Center The Cult of Productivity is Breaking People (39) Post | LinkedIn Rethinking Productivity: 3 Lessons I Wish I Knew Sooner | by Vincent Weng | Medium Coming up next: Decluttering With Purpose, Not Pressure — how to clear space in ways that support what matters most. Productivity isn’t about getting more done — it’s about getting the right things done so you can make a life that matters. Help Spread the Word! Tell a friend about The Productive Woman podcast. Share an episode using the social sharing buttons at the top of this post, and consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts.   Click here to discover my favorite apps! I would love to have your help! Subscribe, rate, and review The Productive Woman in Apple Podcasts or subscribe in Stitcher. Join the conversation at The Productive Woman on Facebook. Your feedback matters to me. Please share your comments, questions, or suggestions. Royse City, Texas I Was Just Thinking . . . Legal Blog: Real Estate Law Blog Follow @LauraMcMom window.twttr = (function (d, s, id) { var t, js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src= "https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); return window.twttr || (t = { _e: [], ready: function (f) { t._e.push(f) } }); }(document, "script", "twitter-wjs")); Contact me Laura McClellan 506 506 A Gentle Restart: Getting Back into Routine After Time Away full 32:59 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-and-purpose-aligning-your-to-do-list-with-your-legacy-tpw505/ Wed, 18 Jun 2025 08:10:05 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12148 What if your to-do list could reflect the legacy you want to leave behind? In this episode we’ll define legacy, explore why daily tasks often feel disconnected, and share ways to align them with your purpose. Laura McClellan 505 505 Productivity and Purpose: Aligning Your To-Do List with Your Legacy full 25:14 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-through-the-seasons-adapting-to-lifes-changes-tpw504/ Wed, 28 May 2025 08:13:43 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12134 Life isn’t one-size-fits-all, and neither is productivity. Although there are productivity principles that can apply across the board, what works for making a meaningfully productive life can vary from one woman to the next, and can change over time as our life changes. We can stay productive through all the seasons of our life if we're willing to assess, adapt, and anchor in what matters most to us. Laura McClellan 504 504 Productivity Through the Seasons: Adapting to Life's Changes full 33:54 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-and-staying-healthy-tpw503/ Wed, 07 May 2025 08:06:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12120 Experiencing a health emergency served as a wake-up call for me, highlighting the importance of taking care of my health. This week I'm sharing some things I've learned and changes I've made to get and stay healthy after a stroke last fall. Laura McClellan 503 503 Getting and Staying Healthy full 44:24 https://theproductivewoman.com/decluttering-your-mind-mental-habits-for-overwhelmed-women-tpw502/ Wed, 23 Apr 2025 08:05:19 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12103 This week we're exploring why mental clutter builds up, how it affects us, and three simple habits to help reduce overwhelm, regain clarity, and focus on what matters. Laura McClellan 502 502 Decluttering Your Mind: Mental Habits for Overwhelmed Women full 36:02 https://theproductivewoman.com/post-sabbatical-update-tpw501/ Wed, 09 Apr 2025 08:10:49 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12089 After a longer-than-planned sabbatical, I'm back with an update! Find more at TheProductiveWoman.com/501 Laura McClellan 501 501 Post-Sabbatical Update full 36:53 https://theproductivewoman.com/sabbaticals-time-to-rest-and-refocus-tpw500/ Wed, 10 Jul 2024 08:21:12 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12070 Have you taken (or thought about taking) a sabbatical? This week we look at the why and what of sabbatical. (And listen for a special announcement at the end of the episode.) Laura McClellan 500 500 Sabbaticals - Time to Rest and Refocus full 32:07 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-year-podiversary-lessons-learned-tpw499/ Wed, 03 Jul 2024 07:11:20 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12063 In this episode we’re celebrating 10 years of The Productive Woman podcast and I’m sharing some lessons I’ve learned along the way. Laura McClellan 499 499 10-Year Podiversary - Lessons Learned full 35:28 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-getting-unstuck-with-britt-frank-tpw498/ Wed, 26 Jun 2024 08:14:37 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12051 This week I'm talking with Britt Frank, a therapist, trauma specialist, and author of The Science of Stuck, about getting unstuck and making a life that matters. Laura McClellan 498 498 Productive Living: Getting Unstuck, with Britt Frank full 47:11 https://theproductivewoman.com/preparing-for-a-productive-retirement-tpw497/ Wed, 19 Jun 2024 08:34:10 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12043 No matter your age, preparing now, with a focus on what matters most to you, can ensure a smooth transition to a rewarding, meaningful, and productive retirement when the time comes. Laura McClellan 497 497 Preparing for a Productive Retirement full 35:28 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-slow-productivity-by-cal-newport-tpw496/ Wed, 12 Jun 2024 08:44:50 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12032 In this week's installment of our recurring Productive Reading series, we look at key takeaways from Cal Newport's newest book, Slow Productivity. Laura McClellan 496 496 Productive Reading: Slow Productivity, by Cal Newport full 41:29 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-ways-to-manage-stress-tpw495/ Wed, 29 May 2024 08:58:12 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12024 There are ways to manage stress--and good reasons to do so. Laura McClellan 495 495 10+ Ways to Manage Stress full 39:04 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-becoming-ceo-of-your-health-with-andrea-nakayama-tpw494/ Wed, 22 May 2024 08:16:33 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12014 Andrea Nakayama, Functional Nutritionist and founder of Functional Nutrition Alliance, shares new ways to look at our health and nutrition while improving our productivity Laura McClellan 494 494 Productive Living: Becoming CEO of Your Health, with Andrea Nakayama full 1:04:02 https://theproductivewoman.com/managing-expectations-tpw493/ Wed, 15 May 2024 08:26:25 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=12007 Disappointment (and worse) can result when we aren't clear on our expectations. Today we’re talking about managing expectations for less stress and more productivity.  Laura McClellan 493 493 Managing Expectations full 26:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/crafting-a-life-that-matters-10-essential-questions-tpw492/ Wed, 08 May 2024 08:26:22 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11997 Self-reflection is always time well spent, especially if it's helping us grow as an individual. In this episode we’re talking about questions we can ask ourselves to help us create a life that matters Laura McClellan 492 492 Crafting a Life That Matters: 10 Essential Questions full 52:43 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-financial-wellness-with-tamara-dias-tpw491/ Wed, 01 May 2024 08:00:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11985 Certified financial social worker Tamara Dias joined me to talk about financial wellness and making a life that matters. Laura McClellan 491 491 Productive Living: Financial Wellness, with Tamara Diaz full 49:35 https://theproductivewoman.com/from-the-vault-working-from-home-tpw490/ Wed, 24 Apr 2024 08:14:22 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11974 Working from home has its benefits--and its challenges. This week I talk about both--and some solutions for the challenges Laura McClellan 490 490 From the Vault: Working from Home full 45:05 https://theproductivewoman.com/mental-load-and-a-life-that-matters-tpw489/ Wed, 17 Apr 2024 08:32:23 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11962 How do you manage the mental load that's part of managing a household, a career, relationships, and a life in general? And how do we get others to share that mental load? Laura McClellan 489 489 Mental Load and a Life That Matters full 1:00:19 https://theproductivewoman.com/the-art-of-balancing-solo-and-social-time-tpw488/ Wed, 10 Apr 2024 18:49:33 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11950 A meaningfully productive life includes a balance of solo and social time--but that balance is different for each of us. Laura McClellan 488 488 The Art of Balancing Solo and Social Time full 22:06 https://theproductivewoman.com/my-tools-for-efficient-work-tpw487/ Wed, 03 Apr 2024 08:51:23 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11943 The tools we use can make all the difference. In this episode I discuss some of the tools I use for efficient work. Laura McClellan 487 487 My Tools for Efficient Work full 40:30 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-switch-craft-by-elaine-fox-phd-tpw486/ Wed, 27 Mar 2024 08:20:19 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11907 This week features an installment in our recurring “Productive Reading” series, looking at key takeaways from Switch Craft, by Elaine Fox, PhD, and the tools that can help us thrive in a constantly changing world. Laura McClellan 486 486 Productive Reading: Switch Craft, by Elaine Fox, PhD full 51:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/swedish-death-cleaning-tpw485/ Wed, 20 Mar 2024 08:49:00 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11847 Swedish Death Cleaning offers a thoughtful approach to decluttering that benefits us in the present and our loved ones when we're gone. Laura McClellan 485 485 Swedish Death Cleaning full 35:24 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-having-it-all-with-brooke-bentley-tpw484/ Wed, 13 Mar 2024 08:29:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11833 Former NFL journalist Brooke Bentley chats with me about choices she's made over the course of her life and career, and the pressure to have it all. Laura McClellan 484 484 Productive Living: Having It All, with Brooke Bentley full 55:28 https://theproductivewoman.com/work-life-integration-tpw483/ Wed, 06 Mar 2024 09:39:39 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11824 What's work-life integration and how is it different from (maybe better than) work-life balance? Laura McClellan 483 483 Work-Life Integration full 29:17 https://theproductivewoman.com/resources-for-making-a-life-that-matters-tpw482/ Wed, 28 Feb 2024 09:00:36 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11794 There are tons of resources that can help us make a life that matters. Let's look at a few of them. Laura McClellan 482 482 Resources for Making a Life That Matters full 27:28 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-reimagining-success-with-anna-lundberg-tpw481/ Wed, 21 Feb 2024 09:20:39 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11780 What does success mean to you? In this week's installment of our Productive Living series, I chat with author, podcaster, coach, and former marketing professional Anna Lundberg about how to make the most of our professional and personal lives. Laura McClellan 481 481 Productive Living: Reimagining Success, with Anna Lundberg full 47:57 https://theproductivewoman.com/overcoming-imposter-syndrome-tpw480/ Wed, 14 Feb 2024 09:30:58 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11768 We all have moments of self-doubt and insecurity. Today we’re talking about imposter syndrome, also know as the imposter phenomenon, and a few things we can do to prevent it from hampering our productivity and our life. Laura McClellan 480 480 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome full 41:06 https://theproductivewoman.com/harder-than-it-needs-to-be-tpw479/ Wed, 07 Feb 2024 09:36:18 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11758 We can make life (and productivity) harder than it needs to be by our own thoughts and actions--but we can also turn that around. Laura McClellan 479 479 Harder Than It Needs to Be? full 46:01 https://theproductivewoman.com/my-new-years-wish-for-you-tpw478/ Wed, 27 Dec 2023 09:36:52 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11749 In this week's short episode I share a brief update on TPW plans and my wishes for you in the coming new year. Laura McClellan 478 478 My New Year's Wish for You full 12:06 https://theproductivewoman.com/6-elements-of-a-productive-day-tpw477/ Wed, 20 Dec 2023 09:14:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11739 We all lead incredibly busy lives, but it's important we don't neglect ourselves or those who matter most to us. In this episode I’m sharing some elements I think are necessary for a truly productive day (and life). Laura McClellan 477 477 6 Elements of a Productive Day full 29:47 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-gifts-to-give-yourself-for-the-new-year-tpw476/ Wed, 13 Dec 2023 09:02:32 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11727 Not all gifts can be wrapped and put under the tree, especially the ones that are the most valuable. This week let's consider some gifts you can give yourself during this holiday season and for the coming year...which could be your most productive ever. Laura McClellan 476 476 10 Gifts to Give Yourself for the New Year full 35:28 https://theproductivewoman.com/twenty-2-minute-habits-to-keep-your-space-and-life-organized-tpw475/ Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:12:02 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11714 Here's quick rundown of a few habits that take only a few minutes but can help you be more organized and productive every day. What can you add to the list? Laura McClellan 474 474 Twenty 2-Minute Habits to Keep Your Space (and Life) Organized full 43:04 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-dopamine-nation-by-dr-anna-lembke-tpw474/ Wed, 29 Nov 2023 09:12:22 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11701 In this installment of our Productive Reading series we look at Dr. Anna Lembke's fascinating book, Dopamine Nation. (Spoiler alert: I recommend it!) Laura McClellan 474 474 Productive Reading: Dopamine Nation, by Dr. Anna Lembke full 54:06 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-sacred-rest-with-dr-saundra-dalton-smith-tpw473/ Wed, 22 Nov 2023 09:31:53 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11691 This week's episode features my conversation with physician Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, author of Sacred Rest, about the 7 types of rest we all need to maximize our quality of life and our positive impact on the world. Laura McClellan 467 467 Productive Living: Sacred Rest, with Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith full 54:11 https://theproductivewoman.com/preparing-for-a-joyful-holiday-season-tpw472/ Wed, 15 Nov 2023 09:01:57 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11680 Let's talk about preparing for joy in the upcoming holiday season, all while remaining productive and keeping our most important priorities in mind. Laura McClellan 472 472 Preparing for a Joyful Holiday Season full 39:39 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-productive-business-communications-with-elizabeth-pearson-tpw471/ Wed, 08 Nov 2023 09:56:49 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11669 This week's episode of our Productive Living series features a conversation with author, speaker, and executive career coach Elizabeth Pearson about productive management of business communications. Laura McClellan 471 471 Productive Living: Productive Business Communications, with Elizabeth Pearson full 51:21 https://theproductivewoman.com/seasonal-productivity-tpw470/ Wed, 01 Nov 2023 08:27:56 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11656 Let's talk about ways to stay productive in different seasons and how to show up at our best year-round. Laura McClellan 472 472 Seasonal Productivity full 32:37 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-hormones-productivity-with-lahana-vigliano-tpw469/ Wed, 25 Oct 2023 08:46:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11642 Let's chat with clinical nutritionist Lahana Vigliano about the importance of gut health and hormones for our health and our productivity. Laura McClellan 469 469 Productive Living: Hormones & Productivity, with Lahana Vigliano full 58:15 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-mindful-financial-independence-with-emily-guy-birken-tpw468/ Wed, 18 Oct 2023 08:23:37 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11632 This week I talk with financial writer Emily Guy Birken about overcoming financial anxiety and confidently achieving mindful financial independence. Laura McClellan 468 468 Productive Living: Mindful Financial Independence, with Emily Guy Birken full 1:02:14 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-and-low-stress-travel-tpw467/ Wed, 11 Oct 2023 08:45:27 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11625 What are your best tips and tricks for productive and low-stress travel? That's what we're talking about in this week's episode. Laura McClellan 467 467 Productive and Low-Stress Travel full 48:40 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-finding-and-using-your-voice-with-jessica-doyle-mekkes-tpw466/ Wed, 04 Oct 2023 08:03:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11615 Professor, vocal coach, and author Jessica Doyle-Mekkes talks about finding your voice (and your power) by speaking up with confidence in your message. Laura McClellan 466 466 Productive Living: Finding and Using Your Voice, with Jessica Doyle-Mekkes full 58:39 https://theproductivewoman.com/cultivating-flexibility-and-resilience-tpw465/ Wed, 27 Sep 2023 08:48:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11605 Intentionally cultivating flexibility and resilience can boost our productivity as we better navigate change and bounce back from adversity. Laura McClellan 465 465 Cultivating Flexibility and Resilience full 36:31 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-creative-self-care-with-mary-adkins-tpw464/ Wed, 20 Sep 2023 08:49:50 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11591 Creative expression is an important component of a productive life. This installment of our Creative Living series features my conversation with lawyer, novelist, and writing coach Mary Adkins about creative self-care. Laura McClellan 464 464 Productive Living: Creative Self-Care, with Mary Adkins full 50:12 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-slumps-and-what-to-do-about-them-tpw463/ Wed, 13 Sep 2023 08:04:58 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11581 This week we’re talking about productivity slumps, what we can do to avoid them, and how to manage our minds to be our most productive when they inevitably happen. Laura McClellan 463 463 Productivity Slumps and What to Do About Them full 33:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-a-holistic-approach-to-productivity-and-impact-with-angela-shurina-tpw462/ Wed, 06 Sep 2023 08:09:39 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11567 This episode of our Productive Living series features my conversation with coach, nutritionist, and author Angela Shurina about a holistic approach to productivity for maximum positive impact on the world. Laura McClellan 462 462 Productive Living: A Holistic Approach to Productivity and Impact, with Angela Shurina full 53:20 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-it-all-done-part-2-some-best-practices-tpw461/ Wed, 30 Aug 2023 08:21:25 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11552 Following up on last week’s episode, this week we talk more about getting it all done, looking at some of the "best practices" recommended by experts. Laura McClellan 461 461 Getting It All Done, Part 2 (Some "Best Practices") full 28:19 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-it-all-done-part-1-how-i-do-it-tpw460/ Wed, 23 Aug 2023 08:49:26 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11543 This week we’re starting a 2-part series about getting it all done, with Part 1's focus on some of the things I personally do to accomplish what matters most to me. Laura McClellan 460 460 Getting It All Done, Part 1 (How I Do It) full 35:13 https://theproductivewoman.com/overcoming-productivity-obstacles-tpw459/ Wed, 16 Aug 2023 08:51:54 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11530 Overcoming productivity obstacles is possible with the right steps. In this week's episode we discuss ways to overcome productivity roadblocks. Laura McClellan 459 459 Overcoming Productivity Obstacles full 28:52 https://theproductivewoman.com/from-the-vault-back-to-school-routine-review-tpw458/ Wed, 09 Aug 2023 08:43:25 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11515 The back-to-school season (or any change in seasons) is a great time to re-evaluate our daily and weekly routines to make sure they're serving us. Laura McClellan 458 458 From the Vault: Back to School Routine Review full 37:30 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-myths-tpw457/ Wed, 02 Aug 2023 08:08:33 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11505 Let's talk about productivity myths: "productivity" beliefs that can actually make us less productive. Laura McClellan 457 457 Productivity Myths full 25:53 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-the-most-of-today-tpw456/ Wed, 26 Jul 2023 08:27:21 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11494 Tomorrow isn't promised to us, so let's make the most of today. Laura McClellan 456 456 Making the Most of Today full 27:41 https://theproductivewoman.com/9-reasons-to-declutter-tpw455/ Wed, 19 Jul 2023 08:09:21 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11484 This week we do a quick review of some good reasons to declutter your space, your calendar, and your mind. Laura McClellan 455 455 9 Reasons to Declutter full 29:24 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-indistractable-by-nir-eyal-tpw454/ Wed, 12 Jul 2023 08:17:33 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11469 This week features the next installment in our recurring “Productive Reading” series, this time talking about key takeaways from Indistractable, by Nir Eyal. Laura McClellan 454 454 Productive Reading: Indistractable by Nir Eyal full 37:55 https://theproductivewoman.com/from-the-vault-saying-no-gracefully-tpw453/ Wed, 05 Jul 2023 08:49:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11458 This week we're revisiting an episode from the TPW archives in which I talk about saying no without feeling guilty. Laura McClellan 453 453 From the Vault: Saying No Gracefully full 31:20 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-time-for-what-matters-most-to-you-tpw452/ Wed, 28 Jun 2023 08:52:24 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11446 This week we’re reviewing some of the basics for making time for what matters most to you, essential to a meaningfully productive life. Laura McClellan 452 452 Making Time for What Matters Most to You full 30:49 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-when-youre-exhausted-tpw451/ Wed, 21 Jun 2023 08:24:58 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11436 How can we get stuff done when we're exhausted and a nap isn't an option? Laura McClellan 451 451 Productivity When You're Exhausted full 26:15 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-in-chaotic-times-tpw450/ Wed, 14 Jun 2023 08:42:57 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11425 How can we stay productive even when we’re surrounded by chaos? Laura McClellan 450 450 Productivity in Chaotic Times full 38:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/organizing-your-digital-life-tpw449/ Wed, 07 Jun 2023 08:54:17 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11417 This week we’re talking about organizing our digital life--why it matters and some suggestions on how to organize key areas of our digital life. Laura McClellan 449 449 Organizing Your Digital Life full 37:40 https://theproductivewoman.com/managing-distractions-in-a-digital-age-tpw448/ Wed, 31 May 2023 08:12:06 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11406 Technology can be a double-edged sword when it comes to our productivity. We're discussing how to manage distractions in a digital age. Laura McClellan 448 448 Managing Distractions in a Digital Age full 34:09 https://theproductivewoman.com/small-changes-today-for-a-more-productive-tomorrow-tpw447/ Wed, 24 May 2023 08:50:00 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11396 As we enter into a new season of the year, let's talk about a few small changes we can make today to create a more productive tomorrow. Laura McClellan 447 447 Small Changes Today for a More Productive Tomorrow full 33:43 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-tools-for-getting-things-done-tpw446/ Wed, 17 May 2023 08:04:03 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11382 All the planning in the world won't help if we don't actually do the stuff we plan. In this episode we'll finish our mini-series about the GTD® method and talk about some of the tools we can use to implement the method and get stuff done. Laura McClellan 446 446 Productivity Tools for Getting Things Done full 31:45 https://theproductivewoman.com/a-deeper-dive-into-gtd-reflect-and-review-tpw445/ Wed, 10 May 2023 08:22:26 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11372 This week we continue our mini-series about the GTD method and talk about a crucial step in any productivity system: reflect and review. Laura McClellan 445 445 A Deeper Dive Into GTD Reflect and Review full 36:23 https://theproductivewoman.com/balancing-work-family-and-self-care-tpw444/ Wed, 03 May 2023 08:49:22 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11362 A lack of balance in our lives can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and burnout. Let's talk about healthy ways to juggle the multiple roles most of us fill in life. Laura McClellan 444 444 Balancing Work, Family, and Self-Care full 38:00 https://theproductivewoman.com/a-deeper-dive-into-gtd-clarify-and-organize-tpw443/ Wed, 26 Apr 2023 08:44:45 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11349 This week we’re continuing our GTD short series by talking about the clarify and organize steps. Laura McClellan 443 443 A Deeper Dive Into GTD Clarify and Organize full 33:13 https://theproductivewoman.com/boundaries-tpw442/ Wed, 19 Apr 2023 08:05:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11339 Sometimes we "bite off more than we can chew," so to speak. Setting appropriate boundaries in our personal and professional life can protect our productivity--and our mental health. Laura McClellan 442 442 Boundaries full 30:13 https://theproductivewoman.com/a-deeper-dive-into-gtd-capture-tpw441/ Wed, 12 Apr 2023 08:06:58 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11329 Last week we discussed David Allen's GTD™ system. Today we’re taking a deeper look at the first component of a functional productivity system: capturing all the things. Laura McClellan 441 441 A Deeper Dive Into GTD Capture full 24:35 https://theproductivewoman.com/a-quick-refresher-on-gtd-tpw440/ Wed, 05 Apr 2023 08:51:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11315 David Allen's GTD™ system includes important concepts and tools for a productive life. This week we're reviewing the fundamentals of Allen's system. Laura McClellan 440 440 A Quick Refresher on GTD full 29:52 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-things-done-when-you-dont-feel-like-it-tpw439/ Wed, 29 Mar 2023 08:41:56 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11305 How can we get things done when we just don't feel like it? Laura McClellan 439 439 Getting Things Done When You Don't Feel Like It full 29:55 https://theproductivewoman.com/9-guidelines-for-productivity-at-work-tpw438/ Wed, 22 Mar 2023 08:47:50 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11292 This week we're talking about things we can do to maximize our productivity and effectiveness at work. Laura McClellan 438 438 9 Guidelines for Productivity at Work full 43:42 https://theproductivewoman.com/taking-better-care-of-things-that-matter-tpw437/ Wed, 15 Mar 2023 08:27:48 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11284 Important things can get overlooked in the daily hustle. As we approach the end of this year's first quarter, let's pause, think, and commit to spending just a little of our time, energy, and attention taking care of what matters. Laura McClellan 437 437 Taking Better Care of Things That Matter full 20:22 https://theproductivewoman.com/time-anxiety-tpw436/ Wed, 08 Mar 2023 09:13:56 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11273 What is time anxiety, how does it affect us, and how can we manage it? Laura McClellan 436 436 Time Anxiety full 31:05 https://theproductivewoman.com/boosting-productivity-tpw435/ Wed, 01 Mar 2023 14:20:16 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11259 Many of us feel like we need to be more productive. This week we're considering why we feel that way, and some ways we can boost our productivity. Laura McClellan 435 435 Boosting Productivity full 33:17 https://theproductivewoman.com/procrastination-and-regret-tpw434/ Wed, 22 Feb 2023 09:34:54 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11249 Do you procrastinate? (Hint: We all do sometimes.) This week we're talking about why we do it, and about how to let go of regret and move forward. Laura McClellan 434 434 Procrastination and Regret full 36:29 https://theproductivewoman.com/adjusting-to-change-tpw433/ Wed, 15 Feb 2023 09:48:01 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11237 Change can be hard, especially for those of us who thrive on routine. Let's talk about ways to adjust to change and minimize the stress when change disrupts our life. Laura McClellan 433 433 Adjusting to Chanage full 41:29 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-focus-tpw432/ Wed, 08 Feb 2023 09:33:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11220 Our ability to purposefully focus on what matters to us plays a key role in creating a more productive and meaningful life. Let's talk about how we can cultivate our ability to manage our attention and energy. Laura McClellan 432 432 Productive Focus full 37:04 https://theproductivewoman.com/the-meaning-in-life-tpw431/ Wed, 01 Feb 2023 09:55:35 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11207 What is the meaning of (our individual) life? This week we consider the “meaning” part of a meaningfully productive life and why identifying that meaning can benefit us. Laura McClellan 431 431 The Meaning in Life full 36:47 https://theproductivewoman.com/planning-for-productivity-tpw430/ Wed, 25 Jan 2023 09:10:33 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11197 Let's talk about the value of planning for a productive life and tips for planning in a way that works best for you. Laura McClellan 430 430 Planning for Productivity full 48:15 https://theproductivewoman.com/goal-setting-refresher-tpw429/ Wed, 18 Jan 2023 09:27:38 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11189 The beginning of a new year is a good time for a refresher on the goal-setting process--how to set goals that are meaningful and achievable. Laura McClellan 429 429 Goal-Setting Refresher full 38:50 https://theproductivewoman.com/quick-check-in-tpw428/ Wed, 11 Jan 2023 09:34:24 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11175 This week's episode will be a quick check-in so I can share a couple of updates and ask a small favor! Laura McClellan 428 428 Quick Check-In full 13:11 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-your-stuff-in-order-8-areas-to-organize-for-a-productive-new-year-tpw427/ Wed, 04 Jan 2023 09:05:21 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11165 This week we're looking at various areas to get organized in order to set ourselves up for a productive new year. Laura McClellan 427 427 Getting Your Stuff in Order: 8 Areas to Organize for a Productive New Year full 41:53 https://theproductivewoman.com/countdown-to-a-new-year-love-tpw426/ Wed, 21 Dec 2022 09:50:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11154 As we continue our countdown to a productive new year, this week we consider how love can help us manage our lives to maximize not only productivity, but also our own joy and peace. Laura McClellan 426 426 Countdown to a New Year: Love full 32:57 https://theproductivewoman.com/countdown-to-a-new-year-peace-tpw425/ Wed, 14 Dec 2022 09:20:00 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11142 As we countdown to a productive new year, may we manage our time in a way that promotes peace in our hearts, our lives, and our world. Laura McClellan 425 425 Countdown to a New Year: Peace full 43:45 https://theproductivewoman.com/countdown-to-a-new-year-joy-tpw424/ Wed, 07 Dec 2022 09:27:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11127 This week we’re beginning a countdown to a productive new year, starting with a conversation about joy. Laura McClellan 424 424 Countdown to a New Year: Joy full 37:26 https://theproductivewoman.com/we-need-each-other-tpw423/ Wed, 30 Nov 2022 09:32:40 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11111 Whether because of generational differences or doctrinal disagreements, no woman should ignore--or worse, seek to silence--another. We need each other. Each of us is made stronger by listening to the others. This week on The Productive Woman podcast we’re talking about the value of relationships among women of different ages and generations. Laura McClellan 423 423 We Need Each Other full 25:30 https://theproductivewoman.com/a-few-of-my-favorite-things-tpw422/ Wed, 23 Nov 2022 09:40:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11091 I'm sharing a few of my favorite things--items that make my life more productive, more pleasant, or just more fun. Some could be great gift ideas--or pick one up for yourself! Laura McClellan 422 422 A Few of My Favorite Things full 40:16 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-conversation-tpw421/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 09:36:53 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11081 With holiday gatherings coming up, this week we're talking about how to have productive conversations with people we disagree with. Laura McClellan 421 421 Productive Conversation full 34:45 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-tranquility-by-tuesday-by-laura-vanderkam-tpw420/ Wed, 09 Nov 2022 09:43:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11066 In this installment of our recurring “Productive Reading” series, we're talking about key takeaways from Laura Vanderkam's newest book, Tranquility by Tuesday. Laura McClellan 420 420 Productive Reading: Tranquility by Tuesday, by Laura Vanderkam full 45:46 https://theproductivewoman.com/clean-tidy-tpw419/ Wed, 02 Nov 2022 08:38:22 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11056 Keeping a clean & tidy space sets the stage for a peacefully productive life. Let's talk about how (and why) to make that happen. Laura McClellan 419 419 Clean & Tidy full 39:16 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-with-purpose-tpw418/ Wed, 26 Oct 2022 08:13:37 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11045 Purpose for our productivity, and productivity with purpose, make for a meaningful life. This week we're talking about the purpose of our productivity, and how being productive can serve our purpose in the long term and in the more immediate term. Laura McClellan 418 418 Productivity with Purpose full 36:09 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-rules-for-a-peacefully-productive-life-tpw417/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 08:40:20 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11036 A peacefully productive life is possible. I'm sharing a few of my "rules" for creating just such a life. Laura McClellan 417 417 10 Rules for a Peacefully Productive Life full 34:30 https://theproductivewoman.com/creative-productivity-and-productive-creativity-tpw416/ Wed, 12 Oct 2022 08:44:12 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11024 Don't think of yourself as creative? This week we’ll talk about creativity and where it fits into our lives as women who care about productivity and making lives that matter. Laura McClellan 416 416 Creative Productivity (and Productive Creativity) full 51:36 https://theproductivewoman.com/4th-quarter-reset-for-a-productive-year-end-tpw415/ Wed, 05 Oct 2022 08:17:27 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11012 This week we’ll talk about doing a meaningful reset as we head into the last quarter of the year and the coming holiday season. Laura McClellan 415 415 4th Quarter Reset for a Productive Year End full 30:56 https://theproductivewoman.com/women-stress-and-productivity-tpw414/ Wed, 28 Sep 2022 08:17:37 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=11000 This week's episode is a refresher on the causes and effects of stress, as well as some techniques for minimizing its negative impact on our lives and our productivity. Laura McClellan 414 414 Women, Stress, and Productivity full 37:01 https://theproductivewoman.com/quality-vs-quantity-tpw413/ Wed, 21 Sep 2022 08:07:22 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10988 There are good reasons to choose quality over quantity--but sometimes quantity matters too. This week we’re talking about evaluating quality versus quantity in various areas of our productive lives. Laura McClellan 413 413 Quality vs. Quantity full 32:31 https://theproductivewoman.com/dont-wait-tpw412/ Wed, 14 Sep 2022 08:27:14 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10979 There are many reasons why we put off doing certain things, and many times those reasons seem to make sense. This week I'm encouraging us all to rethink those reasons, and suggesting that maybe we don't wait. Laura McClellan 412 412 Don't Wait full 24:35 https://theproductivewoman.com/questions-to-ask-yourself-every-day-tpw411/ Wed, 07 Sep 2022 08:38:03 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10970 We can improve our productivity by asking the right questions of ourselves. Laura McClellan 411 411 Questions to Ask Yourself Every Day full 27:47 https://theproductivewoman.com/8-books-i-recommend-and-why-tpw410/ Wed, 31 Aug 2022 08:29:10 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10959 Looking for a good read to help you on your productivity journey? This week I’m sharing 8 books I recommend and why I think they’re worth reading. Laura McClellan 410 410 8 Books I Recommend and Why full 44:39 https://theproductivewoman.com/rethink-and-refresh-your-productivity-system-tpw409/ Wed, 24 Aug 2022 08:17:41 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10947 Is your productivity system still working for you? This week we talk about evaluating and tweaking our productivity system to make sure it's helping us in our quest to make a life that matters. Laura McClellan 409 409 Rethink and Refresh Your Productivity System full 38:40 https://theproductivewoman.com/doing-it-all-vs-doing-enough-tpw408/ Wed, 17 Aug 2022 08:20:35 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10936 Being a productive woman doesn't mean doing all the things all the time. Meaningful productivity--making a life that matters requires us to consider -- when is enough enough? Laura McClellan 408 408 Doing It All vs. Doing Enough full 37:02 https://theproductivewoman.com/transition-to-a-new-school-year-tpw407/ Wed, 10 Aug 2022 08:31:41 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10926 Whether or not school is a part of your current life, the end of summer feels like a time of transition, which makes it a great time to pause and consider intentional changes to make this next season a productive one. Laura McClellan 407 407 Transition to a New School Year full 25:53 https://theproductivewoman.com/favorite-productivity-advice-tools-tpw406/ Wed, 03 Aug 2022 08:45:25 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10914 This week I’m sharing some favorite productivity advice and tools & how I use them to make the most of my time. I'd love to hear your recommendations, too. Laura McClellan 406 406 Favorite Productivity Advice & Tools full 44:29 https://theproductivewoman.com/take-it-or-leave-it-productivity-advice-that-might-or-might-not-work-tpw405/ Wed, 27 Jul 2022 08:52:38 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10903 This week we're talking about common productivity advice that might or might not work for you--and ideas for how you can modify it to meet your needs. Laura McClellan 405 405 Take It or Leave It: Productivity Advice That Might or Might Not Work full 41:28 https://theproductivewoman.com/lightening-the-load-tpw404/ Wed, 20 Jul 2022 08:05:05 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10889 No matter how much we love our life, sometimes our commitments and obligations (and our thoughts) can weigh us down. This week we're considering ways we can lighten our load and make our days more manageable and enjoyable Laura McClellan 404 404 Lightening the Load full 30:49 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-life-makeover-by-dominique-sachse-tpw403/ Wed, 13 Jul 2022 08:09:51 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10874 In this latest episode of our recurring Productive Reading series, I share my favorite quotes and key takeaways from TV news anchor and YouTuber Dominique Sachse's new book, Life Makeover. Laura McClellan 403 403 Productive Reading: Life Makeover by Dominique Sachse full 40:45 https://theproductivewoman.com/halftime-break-mid-year-review-tpw402/ Wed, 06 Jul 2022 08:19:12 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10863 This week we discuss the importance of taking time for an effective mid-year review and how it can benefit us throughout the rest of 2022. Laura McClellan 402 402 Halftime Break, Mid-Year Review full 39:37 https://theproductivewoman.com/make-a-difference-tpw401/ Wed, 29 Jun 2022 08:57:10 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10854 By taking even small actions in our home, our workplace, and our local community, we can make a difference in the world. This week we're looking at some ways to do that. Laura McClellan 401 401 Make a Difference full 39:07 https://theproductivewoman.com/do-the-next-thing-tpw400/ Wed, 22 Jun 2022 08:19:18 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10842 Planning is an important part of a productive life and a frequent topic of discussion on this podcast. Sometimes, though, we just need to do the next thing. Laura McClellan 400 400 Do the Next Thing full 29:53 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-past-monotony-tpw399/ Wed, 15 Jun 2022 08:54:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10833 When routines turn to monotony, it can derail our productivity. Let's talk about some ways we can overcome the monotony, reengage, and stay productive Laura McClellan 399 399 Getting Past Monotony full 33:05 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-use-of-our-time-tpw398/ Wed, 08 Jun 2022 08:35:21 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10821 What is a productive use of time? This week we're looking at that question and offering some suggestions about how to use our time more productively. Laura McClellan 398 398 Productive Use of Our Time full 41:24 https://theproductivewoman.com/personal-mantras-for-personal-productivity-tpw397/ Wed, 01 Jun 2022 08:57:16 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10812 Words matter--especially the words we say to ourselves. We can retrain our thinking in more productive directions by adopting personal mantras. Laura McClellan 397 397 Personal Mantras for Personal Productivity full 30:41 https://theproductivewoman.com/a-manifesto-for-a-life-that-matters-tpw396/ Wed, 25 May 2022 08:41:48 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10800 This week I'm sharing thoughts from my personal manifesto for living a meaningfully productive life--a life that matters as I define it. Laura McClellan 396 396 A Manifesto for a Life that Matters full 32:14 https://theproductivewoman.com/when-life-isnt-fun-anymore-tpw395/ Wed, 18 May 2022 08:56:58 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10791 What do we do when life feels monotonous and predictable and our work becomes drudgery? Let's consider ways to renew our energy and enthusiasm. Laura McClellan 395 395 When Life Isn't Fun Anymore full 32:35 https://theproductivewoman.com/lessons-from-my-daughters-tpw394/ Wed, 11 May 2022 08:51:14 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10778 This week I'm sharing some of the things I've learned from my own daughters about the qualities we need in order to make a life that matters. Laura McClellan 394 394 Lessons from My Daughters full 24:02 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-by-the-numbers-tpw393/ Wed, 04 May 2022 08:29:31 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10762 This week we're looking at productivity by the numbers--including some numbers-based tools and techniques that can help boost our productivity. Laura McClellan 393 393 Productivity by the Numbers full 35:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/dealing-with-an-unexpected-monkey-wrench-tpw392/ Wed, 27 Apr 2022 08:40:38 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10748 What do we do when life throws a monkey wrench into our carefully designed plans? We're looking at how to deal with unexpected disruptions. Laura McClellan 392 392 Dealing with an Unexpected Monkey Wrench full 30:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/creating-a-functional-to-do-list-tpw391/ Wed, 20 Apr 2022 08:22:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10732 This week we're looking at practical ways to create a to-do list that actually helps make sure you get the things done that matter most to you. Laura McClellan 391 391 Creating a Functional To-Do List full 35:00 https://theproductivewoman.com/dream-big-act-small-tpw390/ Wed, 13 Apr 2022 08:38:26 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10716 Dream big? Yes! This week we're talking about how we can achieve big dreams by taking small actions consistently. Laura McClellan 390 390 Dream Big, Act Small full 33:27 https://theproductivewoman.com/workplace-productivity-tpw389/ Wed, 06 Apr 2022 08:10:52 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10704 Whether you work for yourself or for a company, workplace productivity is as important as productivity in our home. This week we're considering some ways to maintain your motivation and stay productive in your job. Laura McClellan 389 389 Workplace Productivity full 37:13 https://theproductivewoman.com/time-energy-attention-making-good-use-of-finite-resources-tpw388/ Wed, 30 Mar 2022 08:23:44 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10690 Making good use of our time, energy, and attention is essential to a meaningfully productive life. Laura McClellan 388 388 Time, Energy, & Attention: Making Good Use of Finite Resources full 35:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/quick-reset-process-for-when-lifes-out-of-control-tpw387/ Wed, 23 Mar 2022 08:16:10 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10675 Whatever the reason, when life gets out of control, this simple reset process might just help you regain a sense of control and confidence. Laura McClellan 387 387 Quick Reset Process for When Life's Out of Control full 34:19 https://theproductivewoman.com/food-for-thought-for-a-life-that-matters-tpw386/ Wed, 16 Mar 2022 08:28:00 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10661 This week I’m sharing some thought-provoking ideas from books I’m reading that inspire and motivate me to think differently about life and productivity. Laura McClellan 386 386 Food for Thought for a Life That Matters full 39:16 https://theproductivewoman.com/4-personal-productivity-problem-areas-tpw385/ Wed, 09 Mar 2022 09:43:02 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10650 Productivity problem areas? This week I share my current top 4, along with some plans to "fix" them! Maybe some of the tips I found will help you, too. Laura McClellan 385 385 4 Personal Productivity Problem Areas full 45:04 https://theproductivewoman.com/serenity-in-stressful-times-tpw384/ Wed, 02 Mar 2022 09:04:57 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10634 This week we're looking at ways to keep our worry and anxiety under control and our minds serene and focused. Laura McClellan 384 384 Serenity in Stressful Times full 41:00 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-the-most-of-time-off-tpw383/ Wed, 23 Feb 2022 09:02:36 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10618 Time to rest and recharge is an essential component of a productive life. This week we discuss how to make the most of time off. Laura McClellan 383 383 Making the Most of Time Off full 30:43 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-organized-part-2-your-time-tpw382/ Wed, 16 Feb 2022 09:59:54 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10602 In this week's episode, we continue our conversation about getting organized, this time looking specifically our time and how we can better use it. Laura McClellan 382 382 Getting Organized, Part 2: Your Time full 46:11 https://theproductivewoman.com/a-few-tips-for-getting-organized-tpw381/ Wed, 09 Feb 2022 09:21:33 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10579 Getting organized brings big productivity benefits. This week we consider some tips for getting our space and stuff organized. Laura McClellan 381 381 A Few Tips for Getting Organized full 36:46 https://theproductivewoman.com/6-ways-to-make-this-year-better-than-last-year-tpw380/ Wed, 02 Feb 2022 09:13:10 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10554 Coming out of my January podcasting sabbatical, I'm sharing 6 simple ways we can make this year better than last year. Laura McClellan 380 380 6 Ways to Make This Year Better Than Last Year full 37:37 https://theproductivewoman.com/who-will-you-be-this-time-next-year-setting-goals-that-matter-tpw379/ Wed, 29 Dec 2021 09:12:25 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10511 This week we're looking at a simple process for setting meaningful goals for the coming year. Laura McClellan 379 379 Who Will You Be This Time Next Year? Setting Goals that Matter full 50:11 https://theproductivewoman.com/laying-a-foundation-lessons-learned-tpw378/ Wed, 22 Dec 2021 09:10:39 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10496 This week we look at one way to conduct a year-end review that can lay the foundation for setting meaningful goals for the coming year. Laura McClellan 378 378 Laying a Foundation: Lessons Learned full 28:45 https://theproductivewoman.com/laying-a-foundation-primary-values-guiding-principles-tpw377/ Wed, 15 Dec 2021 09:22:31 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10480 Before we dig into setting ambitious goals for the next year, let's lay a foundation by identifying our primary values and the principles we live by. Laura McClellan 377 377 Laying a Foundation: Primary Values & Guiding Principles full 33:35 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-space-for-the-new-year-tpw376/ Wed, 08 Dec 2021 09:54:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10468 These last few weeks of the year are a great time to clear out some clutter--physical & mental--and make space for good things in the new year! Laura McClellan 376 376 Making Space for the New Year full 36:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/favorite-productive-gifts-for-yourself-others-tpw375/ Wed, 01 Dec 2021 09:33:43 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10454 Looking for some gift ideas (or productivity tools for yourself)? Here are a few I can recommend! Laura McClellan 375 375 Favorite Productive Gifts for Yourself & Others full 42:31 https://theproductivewoman.com/thanksgiving-and-a-life-that-matters-tpw374/ Wed, 24 Nov 2021 09:30:29 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10438 The Thanksgiving holiday is a great time to remember the ways giving thanks contributes to a meaningfully productive life. Laura McClellan 374 374 Giving Thanks and a Life That Matters full 36:02 https://theproductivewoman.com/saying-no-and-yes-in-november-tpw373/ Wed, 17 Nov 2021 09:34:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10423 "No"vember is a great time to think about when to say no, when to say yes, and how getting it right contributes to a meaningfully productive life. Laura McClellan 373 373 Saying No (and Yes) in "No"vember full 44:59 https://theproductivewoman.com/countdown-to-year-end-tpw372/ Wed, 10 Nov 2021 09:44:00 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10406 It's nearly the end of the year (if you can believe it). Let's look at a few things we can do in the coming weeks to end the year on a productive note and set ourselves up for a successful 2022. Laura McClellan 372 372 Countdown to Year-End full 27:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/personal-retreats-getting-away-to-move-forward-tpw371/ Wed, 03 Nov 2021 08:50:13 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10387 Have you ever gone on a retreat? This week we're talking about how taking a step back can help us move forward toward more productive lives. Laura McClellan 371 371 Personal Retreats: Getting Away to Move Forward full 37:41 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-wardrobe-wisdom-with-geralin-thomas-tpw370/ Wed, 27 Oct 2021 08:56:00 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10368 An organized closet and a functional wardrobe can be a part of our meaningfully productive life. This week Geralin Thomas and I talk about building a wardrobe that is versatile, organized, and stress-free. Laura McClellan 370 370 Productive Living: Wardrobe Wisdom, with Geralin Thomas full 53:50 https://theproductivewoman.com/inspiration-for-a-meaningfully-productive-life-tpw369/ Wed, 20 Oct 2021 08:49:26 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10353 Other people's thoughts and writings can provide inspiration for our own meaningfully productive lives.  Laura McClellan 369 369 Inspiration for a Meaningfully Productive Life full 33:37 https://theproductivewoman.com/buying-ourselves-time-tpw368/ Wed, 13 Oct 2021 08:36:02 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10337 Sometimes spending money on the right tools and carefully chosen resources can buy back time for what matters most. Laura McClellan 368 368 Buying Ourselves Time full 31:04 https://theproductivewoman.com/obstacles-to-productivity-tpw367/ Wed, 06 Oct 2021 08:13:46 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10317 This week we're talking about ways to overcome some of the most common (and frustrating) obstacles to our productivity. Laura McClellan 367 367 Obstacles to Productivity full 31:12 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-digital-minimalism-by-cal-newport-tpw366/ Wed, 29 Sep 2021 08:58:51 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10305 In this episode we continue our recurring “Productive Reading” series, this time talking about my key takeaways from Digital Minimalism, by Cal Newport. (Spoiler alert: I HIGHLY recommend this book.) Laura McClellan 366 366 Productive Reading: Digital Minimalism, by Cal Newport full 42:49 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-span-of-control-with-carey-lohrenz-tpw365/ Wed, 22 Sep 2021 08:47:39 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10286 In this latest episode of our 2021 Productive Living series, Navy fighter pilot, bestselling author, and mom Carey Lohrenz and I talk about formulating a plan for success by focusing on your span of control. Laura McClellan 365 365 Productive Living: Span of Control, with Carey Lohrenz full 47:45 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-for-free-tpw364/ Wed, 15 Sep 2021 08:57:14 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10274 Productivity doesn't have to be costly. This week I share ideas for free productivity tools that can help you accomplish more of what matters to you. Laura McClellan 364 364 Productivity for Free full 43:18 https://theproductivewoman.com/back-to-school-as-an-adult-tpw363/ Wed, 08 Sep 2021 08:24:58 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10249 In this episode we discuss returning to school as an adult student and how to balance your studies and other responsibilities, while still making time for yourself. Laura McClellan 363 363 Back to School (as an adult) full 40:05 https://theproductivewoman.com/creating-productive-routines-tpw362/ Wed, 01 Sep 2021 08:32:05 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10233 Developing intentional and purposeful routines can make a big difference in our day-to-day productivity. Laura McClellan 362 362 Creating Productive Routines full 33:06 https://theproductivewoman.com/using-words-productively-tpw361/ Wed, 25 Aug 2021 08:21:38 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10214 Using words productively calls for intentionality but can maximize our positive impact on the world around us. Laura McClellan 361 361 Using Words Productively full 34:32 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-mental-health-with-scout-sobel-tpw360/ Wed, 18 Aug 2021 08:01:23 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10188 In this latest installment of our 2021 Productive Living series, Scout Sobel and I talk about mental health & productivity--feeling safe in your emotions, living in alignment, and going after your dreams. Laura McClellan 360 360 Productive Living: Mental Health, with Scout Sobel full 43:49 https://theproductivewoman.com/15-productive-things-you-can-do-in-15-minutes-or-less-tpw359/ Wed, 11 Aug 2021 08:29:57 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10173 We don't always have big chunks of time to devote to particular tasks or projects. Let's look at some ways to be productive when we only have a few minutes. Laura McClellan 359 359 15 Productive Things You Can Do in 15 Minutes or Less full 44:22 https://theproductivewoman.com/recent-finds-productivity-resource-discoveries-tpw358/ Wed, 04 Aug 2021 08:38:52 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10154 This week I'm sharing some recently discovered productivity resources that you might find helpful as well! Laura McClellan 318 318 Recent Finds - Productivity Resource Discoveries full 36:13 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-self-care-with-jaime-mclaughlin-tpw357/ Wed, 28 Jul 2021 08:37:19 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10134 Self-care matters! In this installment of the Productive Living series beauty expert Jaime McLaughlin and I talk about quick and easy daily self-care that helps us be productive, efficient, and present for what matters most. Laura McClellan full 1:04:19 https://theproductivewoman.com/how-to-enjoy-rest-tpw356/ Wed, 21 Jul 2021 08:45:02 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10119 We can give ourselves permission to rest, relax and recharge without feeling guilty about it. It's possible to make time for rest, enjoy it, and still be productive. Laura McClellan 356 356 How to Enjoy Rest full 29:34 https://theproductivewoman.com/simple-way-to-manage-to-dos-tpw355/ Wed, 14 Jul 2021 08:44:52 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10096 Looking for a simple but effective way to get your to-do list under control? That's our topic on this week's episode of The Productive Woman podcast. Laura McClellan 355 355 Simple Way to Manage To-Dos full 34:17 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-back-on-track-tpw354/ Wed, 07 Jul 2021 08:04:19 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10080 No matter the reason, when you've let things slide for a while, getting back on track can feel like an overwhelming task. Let's talk about some tips that can help tame the chaos and reestablish some control. Laura McClellan 354 354 Getting Back on Track full 30:21 https://theproductivewoman.com/mid-year-checkin-tpw353/ Wed, 30 Jun 2021 08:48:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10058 Mid-year is a good time to pause and reflect. Are you happy with how the year has gone so far? Laura McClellan 353 353 Mid-Year Checkin full 38:07 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-lifestyle-medicine-with-sarah-keyes-tpw352/ Wed, 23 Jun 2021 08:51:58 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10028 Join Physician Assistant Sarah Keyes and me in this latest episode of the Productive Living series as we talk about how to taking care of our health by making simple but meaningful lifestyle choices--and giving ourselves grace along the way. Laura McClellan 352 352 Productive Living: Lifestyle Medicine, with Sarah Keyes full 45:21 https://theproductivewoman.com/doing-things-badly-tpw351/ Wed, 16 Jun 2021 08:16:12 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=10010 This week I discuss our fears surrounding trying new things and why doing things badly can be very productive. Laura McClellan 351 351 Doing Things Badly full 34:13 https://theproductivewoman.com/prioritizing-your-passions-with-mary-sutton-tpw350/ Wed, 09 Jun 2021 08:37:34 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9988 Multi-published mystery author and full-time technical writer Mary Sutton and I chat about committing to your passions and finding time for “your” stuff amidst the things you “have” to do. Laura McClellan 350 350 Prioritize Your Passions, with Mary Sutton full 48:13 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-effortless-tpw349/ Wed, 02 Jun 2021 08:49:26 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9966 The most essential things don't have to be so hard. In this newest installment of our recurring Productive Reading series I'm sharing my key takeaways from Greg McKeown's new book, Effortless. Laura McClellan 349 349 Productive Reading: Effortless, by Greg McKeown full 42:51 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-getting-dinner-on-the-table-with-kelly-senyei-tpw348/ Wed, 26 May 2021 08:39:35 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9943 In a continuation of the 2021 Productive Living series, I talk with chef, cookbook author, and mom Kelly Senyei about feeding our families, maximizing our productivity, and giving ourselves grace. Laura McClellan 348 348 Productive Living: Getting Dinner on the Table, with Kelly Senjei full 42:23 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-unproductive-things-to-stop-doing-tpw347/ Wed, 19 May 2021 08:48:22 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9922 Sometimes in order to make space in our lives for the good and productive things, we need to weed out the unproductive things--things we do habitually that don’t serve us.  In this episode we're talking about 10 unproductive things we can stop doing to be more productive. Laura McClellan 347 347 10 Unproductive Things to Stop Doing full 41:25 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-women-and-leadership-with-lydia-fenet-tpw346/ Wed, 12 May 2021 08:15:03 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9887 Author, auctioneer, and NYC mom Lydia Fenet and I talk about leading with confidence, negotiating for what you're worth, and networking like a pro. Laura McClellan 346 346 Productive Living: Women and Leadership, with Lydia Fenet full 55:54 https://theproductivewoman.com/personal-productivity-10-things-you-might-not-know-about-me-tpw345/ Wed, 05 May 2021 08:58:42 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9855 Since productivity is such a personal thing, I thought it might be fun to share a few things you might not know about me and how they affect my productivity. I invite you to do an inventory of the personal factors that affect your productivity.  Laura McClellan 345 345 Personal Productivity: 10 Things You Might Not Know About Me full 48:50 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-finding-peace-in-our-parenting-with-lynyetta-willis-tpw344/ Wed, 28 Apr 2021 08:47:34 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9829 Psychologist Dr. Lynyetta Willis and I discuss parenting, productivity, and family empowerment. Laura McClellan 344 344 Productive Living: Finding Peace In Our Parenting, with Lynyetta Willis full 49:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/five-ways-to-get-started-tpw343/ Wed, 21 Apr 2021 08:24:18 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9811 How do you get started when faced with paralyzing overwhelm? In this episode I share 5 tips that can help. Laura McClellan 343 343 Five Ways to Get Started full 25:24 https://theproductivewoman.com/building-meaningful-relationships-in-a-virtual-world-with-betsy-hays-tpw342/ Wed, 14 Apr 2021 08:55:37 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9783 Author and college professor Betsy Hays and I talk about how we can build and nurture professional and personal relationships through virtual networking. Laura McClellan 342 342 Building Meaningful Relationships in a Virtual World, with Betsy Hays full 45:25 https://theproductivewoman.com/how-to-be-happy-tpw341/ Wed, 07 Apr 2021 08:24:54 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9758 Studies show happy people are more productive. This week we're talking about things we can do to be happy. Laura McClellan 341 341 How to Be Happy full 45:42 https://theproductivewoman.com/13-apps-that-help-me-manage-my-life-tpw340/ Wed, 31 Mar 2021 08:39:02 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9722 This week I'm sharing some apps that help me manage my life, get things done that are important to me, and stay productive throughout my day. Laura McClellan 340 340 13 Apps That Help Me Manage My Life full 46:42 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-managing-your-money-well-with-alaina-fingal-tpw339/ Wed, 24 Mar 2021 08:40:33 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9691 In this installment of our Productive Living series, I talk with accountant and certified financial coach Alaina Fingal about money and productivity--including how you can overcome fear related to your money, learn how to establish a budget, and save for your future. Laura McClellan 339 339 Productive Living: Managing Your Money Well, with Alaina Fingal full 1:01:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/habits-that-help-me-stay-productive-and-a-few-i-need-to-work-on-tpw338/ Wed, 17 Mar 2021 08:42:53 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9665 This week we’re talking about habits, specifically looking at some habits that help me stay productive and a few that don’t. We also discuss how to replace "bad" habits with ones that will really serve you in your daily life. Laura McClellan 338 338 Habits That Help Me Stay Productive (and a Few I Need to Work On) full 41:48 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-while-living-abroad-with-sarah-tulen-tpw337/ Wed, 10 Mar 2021 09:49:36 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9631 Newlywed, Gen-Z'er, and small business owner Sarah Tulen and I talk about balancing and growing a new business (and a new marriage!), all while living in a new country.  Laura McClellan 337 337 Productivity While Living Abroad, with Sarah Tulen full 52:40 https://theproductivewoman.com/how-to-choose-and-use-a-planner-tpw336/ Wed, 03 Mar 2021 09:36:56 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9613 This week we're talking about how to choose and use a paper planner to be more productive. Laura McClellan 336 336 How to Choose and Use a Planner full 48:51 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-prioritizing-health-and-fitness-with-jennifer-nagel-tpw335/ Wed, 24 Feb 2021 09:57:57 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9596 This week's episode, which is part of our Productive Living series, features my conversation with certified personal trainer and CEO of Figured Out Fitness, Jennifer Nagel, about how a well-rounded fitness routine can contribute to our productivity and making a life that matters. Laura McClellan 335 335 Productive Living: Prioritizing Health and Fitness, with Jennifer Nagel full 53:18 https://theproductivewoman.com/creating-a-weekly-schedule-that-helps-you-get-things-done-tpw334/ Wed, 17 Feb 2021 09:44:33 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9569 If you’re frustrated by the feeling that weeks go by with no progress on the things that matter to you, or you don’t seem to have enough time in a week to get the things done that you need and want to do, creating a schedule can help.  Laura McClellan 334 334 Creating a Weekly Schedule That Helps You Get Things Done full 34:21 https://theproductivewoman.com/maintaining-balance-as-a-military-spouse-with-carla-swartz-tpw333/ Wed, 10 Feb 2021 09:37:01 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9554 Special education professional, mom, and military wife Carla Swartz and I discuss balancing a busy career, parenting, and a spouse in the military. Laura McClellan 333 333 Maintaining Balance as a Military Spouse, with Carla Swartz full 52:35 https://theproductivewoman.com/simple-daily-hacks-for-a-productive-home-tpw332/ Wed, 03 Feb 2021 09:04:17 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9539 Often we don’t have the time to spend all day cleaning. But there are small things we can do each day to help maintain order, peace, and productivity at home. Laura McClellan 332 332 Simple Daily Hacks for a Productive Home full 24:01 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-living-avoiding-career-burnout-with-errin-weisman-do-tpw331/ Wed, 27 Jan 2021 09:35:17 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9521 Have you experienced burnout in your profession or career? This week's episode, the first in our new Productive Living series, features my conversation with physician and life coach Errin Weisman about how we can avoid and recover from career burnout.  Laura McClellan 331 331 Productive Living: Avoiding Career Burnout, with Errin Weisman, DO full 56:00 https://theproductivewoman.com/multifaceted-productivity-tpw-330/ Wed, 20 Jan 2021 09:25:33 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9504 This week I introduce a new recurring series featuring conversations with women who have expertise, insights, or experience in areas that are important elements of productive living. Laura McClellan 330 330 Multifaceted Productivity full 25:45 https://theproductivewoman.com/creating-a-balanced-life-with-whitnee-hawthorne-tpw329/ Wed, 13 Jan 2021 09:44:41 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9487 Busy mom, podcaster, and Fortune 500 executive Whitnee Hawthorne and I talk about how she balances her professional life with her commitment to her family and her passion for helping other working moms. Laura McClellan 329 329 Creating a Balanced Life, with Whitnee Hawthorne full 38:38 https://theproductivewoman.com/ideas-for-a-productive-new-year-tpw328/ Wed, 06 Jan 2021 09:21:41 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9469 Turning the calendar to a new year doesn’t actually have any meaning in and of itself, but it can be a great time to do a reset and take a few actions that will set you up for improved productivity in the weeks and months to come.  Laura McClellan 328 328 Ideas for a Productive New Year full 38:06 https://theproductivewoman.com/thank-you-tpw327/ Wed, 30 Dec 2020 09:51:14 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9454 As we wrap up this unusual year, I wanted to take just a few minutes to say thank you--and to leave you with some quotes that inspire me to dream big and accomplish my goals. Laura McClellan 327 327 Thank You! full 9:17 https://theproductivewoman.com/this-time-next-year-tpw326/ Wed, 23 Dec 2020 09:24:42 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9440 This year has been challenging, to say the least. As the year wraps up, let's take time to look towards the future and think about where we'd like to be this time next year. What steps can we take now to get us where we want to be? Laura McClellan 326 326 This Time Next Year full 37:25 https://theproductivewoman.com/lessons-from-an-unusual-year-tpw325/ Wed, 16 Dec 2020 09:54:01 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9422 This unusual year has shaken us as individuals and as a society. A lot of us have had to rethink our priorities, even our identity. The upheaval and challenges have brought to the forefront of my mind some personal qualities I think are important if we want to be productive and make a life that matters. Laura McClellan 325 325 Lessons from an Unusual Year full 39:43 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-the-minimalist-home-tpw324/ Wed, 09 Dec 2020 09:41:19 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9405 This week we continue our Productive Reading Series, talking about my key takeaways from Joshua Becker's excellent book, The Minimalist Home. Laura McClellan 324 324 Productive Reading: The Minimalist Home, by Joshua Becker full 44:41 https://theproductivewoman.com/discovering-your-potential-with-margaret-alabi-tpw323/ Wed, 02 Dec 2020 09:52:58 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9381 Margaret Alabi is a busy Pharmacist by day but spends her free time coaching others to reach their full potential as leaders through The Pivot Consulting Group, the agency she co-founded. This episode features my conversation with Margaret about how she implements tools for sustainable productivity to balance her professional life with her passion for helping others grow. Laura McClellan 323 323 Discovering Your Potential, with Margaret Alabi full 49:50 https://theproductivewoman.com/giving-thanks-tpw322/ Wed, 25 Nov 2020 09:51:52 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9371 Giving thanks and feeling grateful matter to our mental and physical health, to our relationships--and to our productivity. Especially in light of the challenges we've all faced this year, the Thanksgiving holiday is a good reminder of how important it is to give thanks every day. Laura McClellan 322 322 Giving Thanks full 33:12 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-and-staying-motivated-tpw321/ Wed, 18 Nov 2020 09:41:54 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9354 Motivation is what drives us to act and keep acting. But internal and external obstacles can sap our motivation and keep us from accomplishing goals. How can we get--and keep--ourselves motivated to keep moving forward? Laura McClellan 321 321 Getting and Staying Motivated full 46:02 https://theproductivewoman.com/prioritizing-your-time-with-elizabeth-hill-tpw320/ Wed, 11 Nov 2020 09:16:33 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9334 Elizabeth Hill is a busy mom, business owner, and lawyer who is trying to make the best use of her time, while also being careful to make time for herself. This week we discuss her multiple roles and her tips for starting a small business. Laura McClellan 320 320 Prioritizing Your Time, with Elizabeth Hill full 51:52 https://theproductivewoman.com/holiday-prep-tpw319/ Wed, 04 Nov 2020 09:53:30 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9311 Our 2020 holiday celebrations and gatherings may look different from years past. This week we discuss some things we can do now to prepare for a joyous and safe holiday season. Laura McClellan 319 319 Holiday Prep full 33:46 https://theproductivewoman.com/healthy-habits-for-productive-living-tpw318/ Wed, 28 Oct 2020 08:23:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9290 Being physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy leads to a more productive life. This week we consider a few healthy habits that can help. Laura McClellan 318 318 Health Habits for Productive Living full 50:37 https://theproductivewoman.com/searching-for-balance-with-sarah-im-tpw317/ Wed, 21 Oct 2020 08:04:30 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9271 Like many of us, mom and Realtor Sarah Im is searching for a workable balance between work and family. This week she and I talk about that search, and about raising children in a thoughtful and intentional way. Laura McClellan 317 317 Searching for Balance, with Sarah Im full 56:05 https://theproductivewoman.com/6-productive-things-to-do-before-the-year-ends-tpw316/ Wed, 14 Oct 2020 08:23:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9256 This week we're looking at what can we do in the coming weeks to ensure our year ends on a productive note and to prepare for next year. Laura McClellan 316 316 6 Productive Things to Do Before the Year Ends full 34:53 https://theproductivewoman.com/favorite-productivity-tools-and-how-i-use-them-tpw315/ Wed, 07 Oct 2020 08:16:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9230 I don’t believe productivity is dependent on particular tools or apps, but we are fortunate to live in an age when there are many resources available to make our lives and work simpler and more efficient. This week I'm sharing a few of my favorite productivity tools. Laura McClellan 315 315 Favorite Productivity Tools and How I Use Them full 43:23 https://theproductivewoman.com/speaking-with-confidence-with-mary-cheyne-tpw314/ Wed, 30 Sep 2020 08:10:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9202 This week, Mary Cheyne and I talk about finding your voice, speaking with confidence, and how to bypass your inner critic. Even if you have no interest in speaking from a stage, Mary has some great tips for speaking confidently in any situation. Laura McClellan 314 314 Speaking with Confidence, with Mary Cheyne full 56:08 https://theproductivewoman.com/preparing-for-emergencies-tpw313/ Wed, 23 Sep 2020 08:33:03 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9175 No one likes to think about an emergency occurring, but it's important to be prepared. Since September is National Preparedness Month, I thought I’d share a few things I’ve learned about how to prepare for an emergency situation and ensure you and your household are safe. Laura McClellan 313 313 Preparing for Emergencies full 37:07 https://theproductivewoman.com/that-project-youve-been-avoiding-tpw312/ Wed, 16 Sep 2020 08:01:29 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9148 Do you have a project you've been avoiding because you're overwhelmed, don't have time, or aren't sure how to get started, or a dream you haven't taken action on because you're afraid it's out of reach? This week we're talking about how to figure out what's holding us back and come up with strategies to get started. Laura McClellan 312 312 That Project You've Been Avoiding full 42:44 https://theproductivewoman.com/practicing-gratitude-with-autumn-mckay-tpw311/ Wed, 09 Sep 2020 08:33:55 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9128 Early childhood education profession, mom, and author Autumn McKay talks with me about mom guilt, practicing gratitude, and keeping kids engaged and happy during hectic times. Laura McClellan 311 311 Practicing Gratitude, with Autumn McKay full 41:54 https://theproductivewoman.com/a-life-well-lived-tpw310/ Wed, 02 Sep 2020 08:11:06 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9108 Productivity is more than just crossing things off a to-do list. How would you define a life well lived? It’s easy to get absorbed in our days and lose sight of the bigger picture (those things that matter most) unless we intentionally make time and opportunities to remind ourselves why we’re doing the things we do. Laura McClellan 310 310 A Life Well Lived full 44:52 https://theproductivewoman.com/keep-calm-and-carry-on-tpw309/ Wed, 26 Aug 2020 08:34:57 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9082 "Keep calm" is easy to say but sometimes harder to do. The week we're looking at ways to cope productively with anxiety and stress during tough times.  Laura McClellan 309 309 Keep Calm and Carry On full 55:32 https://theproductivewoman.com/the-paper-solution-with-lisa-woodruff-tpw308/ Wed, 19 Aug 2020 08:32:38 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9058 Professional organizer Lisa Woodruff returns to the podcast to talk with me about how we can increase our productivity and happiness by conquering paper clutter in our homes and offices using the system described in her excellent new book, The Paper Solution. Laura McClellan 308 308 The Paper Solution, with Lisa Woodruff full 50:19 https://theproductivewoman.com/all-or-nothing-tpw307/ Wed, 12 Aug 2020 09:10:20 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9032 Having an overachieving "do it all, all the time" mindset can lead to burnout, discouragement, and missing out on what's really important. This week we're looking at ways to overcome the paralyzing, discouraging effects of perfectionism and move forward on the goals that matter most to us. Laura McClellan 307 307 All or Nothing full 44:51 https://theproductivewoman.com/how-to-have-a-good-week-tpw306/ Wed, 05 Aug 2020 08:31:50 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=9005 This week we’re talking about how to have a good, productive week, and how to make kindness and gratitude a part of every day. Laura McClellan 306 306 How to Have a Good Week full 42:27 https://theproductivewoman.com/intentional-priorities-with-elizabeth-benton-tpw305/ Wed, 29 Jul 2020 08:43:49 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8974 To achieve a goal, we have to keep saying yes to that priority when we want to say no. This week Elizabeth Benton and I talk about setting, and living by, intentional priorities. Laura McClellan 305 305 Intentional Priorities, with Elizabeth Benton full 49:26 https://theproductivewoman.com/using-free-time-well-tpw304/ Wed, 22 Jul 2020 09:22:40 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8952 When normal activities are suspended, whether during a pandemic or due to some other change in circumstances, we might find ourselves with unexpected free time. How can we use that free time in positive and productive ways? Laura McClellan 304 304 Using Free Time Well full 40:16 https://theproductivewoman.com/mid-year-reflection-tpw303/ Wed, 15 Jul 2020 09:28:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8925 2020 has been an unusual year. How have the first six months of 2020 gone for you? What do you want the next 6 months to look like? Mid-year is a good time to pause, reflect, and regroup. Laura McClellan 303 303 Mid-Year Reflection full 32:45 https://theproductivewoman.com/reclaiming-your-creativity-with-majo-molfino-tpw302/ Wed, 08 Jul 2020 08:59:23 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8887 This week, Majo Molfino and I talk about the 5 Good Girl Myths, reclaiming your creativity, and finding your purpose. Laura McClellan 302 302 Reclaiming Your Creativity, with Majo Molfino full 51:44 https://theproductivewoman.com/favorite-productivity-tips-tools-tpw301/ Wed, 01 Jul 2020 08:55:54 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8858 As we celebrate 6 years (!!) of The Productive Woman podcast, here are a few productivity tips and tools from the TPW community and from me! Laura McClellan 301 301 Favorite Productivity Tips and Tools full 48:26 https://theproductivewoman.com/meaningful-productivity-tpw300/ Wed, 24 Jun 2020 09:25:12 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8843 It's not enough to just get lots of stuff done. We want to make lives that matter--we want our productivity to be meaningful. In this milestone episode, we discuss what meaningful productivity means and how we can order our lives so as to maximize our positive impact on the world. Laura McClellan 300 300 Meaningful Productivity full 38:06 https://theproductivewoman.com/using-your-voice-with-eva-jannotta-tpw299/ Wed, 17 Jun 2020 09:03:51 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8812 This week, Eva Jannotta and I chat about being the most productive version of yourself and boldly using your voice to advocate for what you want. Laura McClellan 299 299 Using Your Voice, with Eva Jannotta full 55:08 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-back-on-track-tpw298/ Wed, 10 Jun 2020 08:49:21 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8780 Even those of us who usually practice productive habits get off track sometimes. What do you do to get back on track when everything gets away from you? Laura McClellan 298 298 Getting Back on Track full 39:19 https://theproductivewoman.com/what-i-do-to-make-time-tpw297/ Wed, 03 Jun 2020 09:23:25 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8755 With all the hats we wear and our never-ending to-do lists, it's important to use our time wisely so we can focus on the things that truly matter. This week I'm sharing a few things I do to make time for what matters most to me. Laura McClellan 297 297 What I Do to Make Time full 46:19 https://theproductivewoman.com/deconstructing-wellness-with-kris-rice-tpw296/ Wed, 27 May 2020 09:37:50 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8723 Kris Rice and I chat about how she prioritizes wellness and tends to her most important priorities. (And don't miss the freebie she's offering TPW listeners--see the link in the show notes!) Laura McClellan 296 296 Deconstructing Wellness full 46:35 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-a-few-recommendations-tpw295/ Wed, 20 May 2020 09:23:28 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8685 Good books can be a source of entertainment, education, and inspiration, helping us make meaningfully productive lives. Here are a few of my favorites. Laura McClellan 295 295 Productive Reading: A Few Recommendations full 47:49 https://theproductivewoman.com/things-i-know-for-sure-tpw294/ Wed, 13 May 2020 09:26:44 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8653 What do you know for sure? The older I get, the less certain I am about many things, but there are a few things I know for sure about productivity and making a life that matters. Laura McClellan 294 294 Things I Know for Sure full 34:25 https://theproductivewoman.com/overcoming-impostor-syndrome-with-dr-lisa-orbe-austin-tpw293/ Wed, 06 May 2020 09:12:41 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8599 Psychologist, executive coach, and author Dr. Lisa Orbé-Austin has focused her career on helping women (and men) overcome Impostor Syndrome and make meaningfully productive lives. Laura McClellan 293 293 Overcoming Impostor Syndrome, with Dr. Lisa Orbé-Austin full 37:52 https://theproductivewoman.com/trauma-and-productivity-tpw292/ Wed, 29 Apr 2020 09:25:39 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8555 How can you be productive during, or in the aftermath of, trauma? Laura McClellan 292 292 Trauma and Productivity full 35:25 https://theproductivewoman.com/favorite-tips-from-professional-organizers-tpw291/ Wed, 22 Apr 2020 09:21:47 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8506 As a longtime organization nerd, I've gathered some great tips from professional organizers whose books, YouTube videos, podcasts, and articles I've learned from over the years. Laura McClellan 291 291 Favorite Tips from Professional Organizers full 45:00 https://theproductivewoman.com/incremental-steps-to-your-goal-with-merrily-orsini-tpw290/ Wed, 15 Apr 2020 09:19:35 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8492 Healthcare executive Merrily Orsini is an advocate for home healthcare--and for taking small incremental steps to achieve your most cherished goals. Laura McClellan 290 290 Incremental Steps to Your Goal, with Merrily Orsini full 50:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/friends-mentors-and-a-life-that-matters-tpw289/ Wed, 08 Apr 2020 09:10:39 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8477 Meaningful productivity is about making a life that matters. For me, a life that matters centers on people that matter. Aside from family, friends and mentors have perhaps the most influence on our meaningfully productive life. Laura McClellan 289 289 Friends, Mentors, and a Life that Matters full 40:18 https://theproductivewoman.com/adjusting-to-working-from-home-tpw288/ Wed, 01 Apr 2020 09:44:23 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8460 Working from home can be great, but if the decision to do so was made for you by outside circumstances and with little time to prepare, it comes with unique challenges. Laura McClellan 288 288 Adjusting to Working from Home full 50:18 https://theproductivewoman.com/life-during-a-crisis-tpw287/ Sat, 28 Mar 2020 00:29:17 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8450 This week I'm sharing a few thoughts about life and productivity during a time of crisis, including a few suggestions for adjusting to a new reality. Laura McClellan 287 287 Life During a Crisis full 45:17 https://theproductivewoman.com/11-time-wasters-to-eliminate-tpw286/ Wed, 18 Mar 2020 09:39:35 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8435 What time wasters can we eliminate to make more time for what matters most? We're talking about a few of them in this week's episode. Laura McClellan 286 286 11 Time Wasters to Eliminate full 56:02 https://theproductivewoman.com/setting-goals-that-matter-tpw285/ Wed, 11 Mar 2020 09:08:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8407 Setting goals that matter starts with knowing what's most important to you. This week we're reviewing some principles of setting meaningful goals. Laura McClellan 285 285 Setting Goals that Matter full 37:14 https://theproductivewoman.com/thoughts-about-work-life-balance-tpw284/ Wed, 04 Mar 2020 10:16:30 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8388 Is work-life balance really a thing? Some thoughts about what it means (and what it doesn't mean) on this week's episode. Laura McClellan 284 284 Thoughts About Work-Life Balance full 45:23 https://theproductivewoman.com/presence-and-productivity-with-mayda-poc-tpw283/ Wed, 26 Feb 2020 10:27:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8362 This week's episode features my conversation with former investment banking professional Mayda Poc about how she intentionally incorporates being present in the moment into her productive life. Laura McClellan 283 283 Presence and Productivity, with Mayda Poc full 54:59 https://theproductivewoman.com/healthy-eating-when-you-dont-have-time-tpw282/ Wed, 19 Feb 2020 10:09:38 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8345 This week's episode features tips from women in the TPW community on how they fit healthy eating into their busy lives. Laura McClellan 282 282 Healthy Eating When You Don't Have Time full 27:18 https://theproductivewoman.com/the-power-of-what-we-can-control-tpw281/ Wed, 12 Feb 2020 10:06:31 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8324 When it comes to making a meaningfully productive life, there is incredible power in focusing on the things we can control. Laura McClellan 281 281 The Power of What We Can Control full 36:22 https://theproductivewoman.com/capitalizing-optimal-hours-productivity-min-choi-tpw280/ Wed, 05 Feb 2020 10:38:04 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8302 This week's episode of The Productive Woman podcast features my conversation with professor, wife, and mom Min Choi about how she identified her optimal hours for productivity and protects those hours for getting her most important work done. Laura McClellan 280 280 Capitalizing Optimal Hours of Productivity, with Min Choi full 44:55 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-stuff-done-tpw279/ Wed, 29 Jan 2020 10:39:32 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8286 What gets in the way of getting stuff done, and how can we overcome those obstacles and accomplish what matters to us? Laura McClellan 279 279 Getting Stuff Done full 50:56 https://theproductivewoman.com/11-ways-to-keep-your-new-year-motivation-going-tpw278/ Wed, 22 Jan 2020 10:26:00 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8270 Achieving our goals this year requires consistent action. What do you do if your motivation to act starts to fade as the year continues? Laura McClellan 278 278 11 Ways to Keep Your New Year Motivation Going full 43:04 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-things-to-declutter-tpw277/ Wed, 15 Jan 2020 10:05:44 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8246 The beginning of a new year is a great time to declutter your space. This week's episode offers some ideas and inspiration to get you started. Laura McClellan 277 277 10 Things to Declutter full 55:30 https://theproductivewoman.com/good-morning-good-life-with-amy-landino-tpw276/ Wed, 08 Jan 2020 10:38:12 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8219 Amy Landino is on a mission to help you go after the life you want, starting with a morning routine that launches and grounds productive days. Laura McClellan 276 276 Good Morning, Good Life, with Amy Landino full 35:19 https://theproductivewoman.com/5-small-things-to-do-every-day-this-year-tpw275/ Wed, 01 Jan 2020 09:33:24 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8194 Big changes are impressive, but great progress can be achieved by taking small actions consistently. Consider 5 small things to do every day for a more productive year. Laura McClellan 275 275 5 Small Things to Do Every Day This Year full 37:42 https://theproductivewoman.com/holiday-wishes-and-year-end-reminders-tpw274/ Wed, 25 Dec 2019 10:37:25 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8161 This brief episode looks at four productive choices we can make during the holidays--and every day. Laura McClellan 274 274 Holiday Wishes and Year-End Reminders full 14:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/choosing-and-using-a-planner-tpw-273/ Wed, 18 Dec 2019 10:31:54 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8139 Now's a great time to think about a new planner for the coming year. In this week's episode we look at some things to consider in choosing (and using) a planner--including some great suggestions from the TPW community. Laura McClellan 273 273 Choosing (and Using) a Planner full 48:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/fill-up-your-cup-dallas-heath-tpw272/ Wed, 11 Dec 2019 10:32:55 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8142 This week I'm talking with nutrition and wellness coach Dallas Heath about how intentional self-care helps her (and us) be more productive. Laura McClellan 272 272 Fill Up Your Cup, with Dallas Heath full 58:04 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-attention-management-maura-thomas-tpw271/ Wed, 04 Dec 2019 10:22:40 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8118 Attention management is a key productivity skill--and the subject of Maura Thomas's book, Attention Management. Laura McClellan 271 271 Productive Reading: Attention Management, by Maura Thomas full 35:56 https://theproductivewoman.com/gratitude-tpw270/ Wed, 27 Nov 2019 10:11:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8095 Cultivating gratitude helps us be happier and more productive. Hear about a few more benefits of gratitude in this week's quick holiday-week episode. Laura McClellan 270 270 Gratitude full 32:03 https://theproductivewoman.com/boundaries-helen-wright-tpw269/ Wed, 20 Nov 2019 11:29:52 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8077 London-based banking professional Helen Wright sets intentional boundaries between work, personal, and family commitments. We talk about what that means to her in this week's episode. Laura McClellan 269 269 Boundaries, with Helen Wright full 52:40 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-tools-tpw268/ Wed, 13 Nov 2019 12:26:33 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8059 What are your favorite productivity tools? I'm sharing 10 of mine on this week's episode. Laura McClellan 268 268 Productivity Tools full 50:07 https://theproductivewoman.com/heart-to-heart-tpw267/ Wed, 06 Nov 2019 12:18:01 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=8048 Do you ever feel disappointed in your own productivity? Me too. This week I'm sharing a few thoughts from my heart about productivity, disappointed expectations, and feeling better. Laura McClellan 267 267 Heart to Heart full 41:31 https://theproductivewoman.com/simplicity-flexibility-natalie-rodriguez-tpw266/ Wed, 30 Oct 2019 11:16:49 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7999 This week's episode features my conversation with law school dean and mom Natalie Rodriguez about how she structures her life for simplicity and flexibility to make room for what matters most to her. Laura McClellan 266 266 Simplicity and Flexibility, with Natalie Rodriguez full 50:29 https://theproductivewoman.com/partner-productivity-tpw265/ Wed, 23 Oct 2019 11:41:12 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7976 How can we influence our spouses, and others close to us, to be more productive, and why would we want to? Laura McClellan 265 265 Partner Productivity full 45:23 https://theproductivewoman.com/taking-the-lead-women-leadership-tpw264/ Wed, 16 Oct 2019 11:06:31 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7949 What does it take to be an effective, productive leader? Laura McClellan 264 264 Taking the Lead (Women & Leadership) full 1:03:44 https://theproductivewoman.com/get-organized-head-first-claire-kellems-tpw263/ Wed, 09 Oct 2019 11:56:56 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7918 Working mom Claire Kellems' search for order in her chaotic life has led to a blog, a business, and more peace of mind. How she got organized (and how you can too) is the subject of our conversation in this week's episode. Laura McClellan 263 263 Get Organized Head First, with Claire Kellems full 42:18 https://theproductivewoman.com/giving-grace-tpw262/ Wed, 02 Oct 2019 11:34:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7902 What does it mean to extend grace, and what does grace have to do with productivity? A conversation about grace and compassion on this week's episode of The Productive Woman. Laura McClellan full 36:50 https://theproductivewoman.com/isolation-tpw261/ Wed, 25 Sep 2019 11:14:19 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7881 Do isolation or loneliness affect your productivity? Laura McClellan 261 261 Isolation full 49:09 https://theproductivewoman.com/career-clarity-jamie-lieberman-tpw260/ Wed, 18 Sep 2019 11:45:29 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7858 Using experience to find clarity on what matters to her has helped attorney, entrepreneur, wife, and mom Jamie Lieberman build a career and life she loves. Laura McClellan 260 260 Career Clarity, with Jamie Lieberman full 49:29 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-ready-to-move-tpw259/ Wed, 11 Sep 2019 11:53:31 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7839 Getting ready to move to a new home is a project that can be made easier with a little thought and planning. Laura McClellan 259 259 Getting Ready to Move full 42:34 https://theproductivewoman.com/workplace-productivity-tpw258/ Wed, 04 Sep 2019 11:30:24 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7816 What can we do to maximize our productivity at work, wherever our workplace might be? Laura McClellan 258 258 Workplace Productivity full 47:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/taking-next-move-jana-arellano-tpw257/ Wed, 28 Aug 2019 10:38:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7795 Jana Arellano has made more than one big move in her life, and she's learned from every one. Her next move is helping other women develop the confidence to make their next move. How she makes it happen is the subject of our conversation. Laura McClellan 257 257 Taking the Next Move, with Jana Arellano full 51:42 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-difficult-decisions-tpw256/ Wed, 21 Aug 2019 11:40:29 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7771 We can't make a life that matters without making decisions, but some decisions are harder than others. How can we make decision-making a little less stressful? Laura McClellan 256 256 Making Difficult Decisions full 39:37 https://theproductivewoman.com/hormones-productivity-tpw255/ Wed, 14 Aug 2019 12:10:12 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7750 This week we're discussing how hormonal changes, and the symptoms caused by those changes, affect our productivity during pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause. (And this discussion isn't just for women!) Laura McClellan 255 255 Hormones and Productivity full 48:56 https://theproductivewoman.com/beating-overwhelm-mridu-parikh-tpw254/ Wed, 07 Aug 2019 12:37:55 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7728 This week I'm chatting with speaker, author, wife, and mom Mridu Parikh about how she minimizes overwhelm by simplifying where she can and by ordering her days intentionally. Laura McClellan 254 254 Beating Overwhelm, with Mridu Parikh full 49:40 https://theproductivewoman.com/when-you-want-to-do-it-all-tpw253/ Wed, 31 Jul 2019 11:46:09 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7706 Whether you want to focus on one thing at a time or simultaneously pursue multiple goals, make sure you like the life you're creating. Laura McClellan 253 253 When You Want to Do It All full 37:24 https://theproductivewoman.com/how-i-get-work-done-tpw252/ Wed, 24 Jul 2019 12:20:32 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7359 Sometimes when we're looking for ways to get work done, it helps to hear about tools and techniques that have been effective for other people. This week I'm sharing a bit about the tools, systems, and approaches I use to get work done. Laura McClellan 252 252 How I Get Work Done full 1:02:00 https://theproductivewoman.com/structure-empowerment-lasting-impact-jill-valdez-tpw-251/ Wed, 17 Jul 2019 11:28:20 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7343 This week I'm talking with Jill Valdez about how intentional structure in her multi-faceted life helps her create impact, and how she's encouraging managers & business owners to empower their employees to do the same. Laura McClellan 251 251 Structure & Empowerment for Lasting Impact, with Jill Valdez full 44:35 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-free-to-focus-michael-hyatt-tpw250/ Wed, 10 Jul 2019 11:50:27 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7319 Looking for a worthwhile summer read? I recommend Michael Hyatt's book, Free to Focus. Hear my key takeaways in this episode, the latest installment in our recurring Productive Reading series. Laura McClellan 250 250 Productive Reading: Free to Focus, by Michael Hyatt full 56:18 https://theproductivewoman.com/5-years-productive-woman-tpw249/ Wed, 03 Jul 2019 12:26:41 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7297 The Productive Woman podcast is 5 years old! In this episode I'm sharing productivity lessons learned, dreams for the future, and 5 questions for you. Laura McClellan 249 249 5 Years of The Productive Woman full 47:22 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-room-things-that-matter-susan-comiskey-tpw248/ Wed, 26 Jun 2019 12:15:36 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7269 This week's episode features my conversation with Australia native (but current Singapore resident) Susan Comiskey about how she makes time for speaking, teaching, and doctoral studies while making a life that matters with her husband and daughter. Laura McClellan 248 248 Making Room for the Things That Matter to You, with Susan Comiskey full 42:57 https://theproductivewoman.com/remember-this-10-productivity-principles-tpw247/ Wed, 19 Jun 2019 12:06:57 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7243 Some productivity principles are worth being reminded of from time to time. Here are a few that I think are important. Laura McClellan 247 247 Remember This: 10 Productivity Principles full 38:24 https://theproductivewoman.com/why-we-do-what-we-do-tpw246/ Wed, 12 Jun 2019 12:11:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7218 Understanding why we do what we do is key to taking intentional actions that serve us--and can also help us be more compassionate toward others. If you're ever frustrated because you do things that don't make sense in light of your goals and values, you might appreciate this week's episode of the podcast. Laura McClellan 246 246 Why We Do What We Do full 38:40 https://theproductivewoman.com/structuring-days-intention-nina-means-tpw245/ Wed, 05 Jun 2019 11:29:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7189 For fashion designer, "Fashion Incubator" director, and new mom Nina Means, structuring her days with intention is key to making time for what matters most to her. Hear how she's making a life that matters in this week's episode. Laura McClellan 245 245 Structuring Your Days with Intention, with Nina Means full 47:47 https://theproductivewoman.com/summer-fun-safety-tpw244/ Wed, 29 May 2019 12:05:04 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7165 Summer's upon us (at least those of us in the northern hemisphere)! With a little bit of forethought, summer can be both fun and safe. In this week's episode we consider some suggestions for both. Laura McClellan 244 244 Summer Fun & Safety full 35:06 https://theproductivewoman.com/dealing-with-distraction-tpw243/ Wed, 22 May 2019 12:24:45 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7128 Does distraction interfere with your productivity and keep you from accomplishing all you want to? In episode 243 of The Productive Woman we look at some effects and causes of distraction--and a few solutions. Laura McClellan 243 243 Dealing with Distraction full 48:09 https://theproductivewoman.com/redefining-modern-motherhood-joanna-parker-tpw242/ Wed, 15 May 2019 12:08:47 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7099 Working out a solution to a daily parenting challenge inspired one mom to launch a business committed to helping other moms. This episode features my conversation with Yumble founder Joanna Parker about motherhood, entrepreneurship, and finding your own way. Laura McClellan 242 242 Redefining Modern Motherhood, with Joanna Parker full 44:04 https://theproductivewoman.com/motherhood-life-matters-tpw241/ Wed, 08 May 2019 12:18:44 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7082 Does having children interfere with productivity or does it motivate us to be productive? This episode offers some thoughts on motherhood and making a life that matters. Laura McClellan 241 241 Motherhood & a Life That Matters full 29:36 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-good-use-evenings-tpw240/ Wed, 01 May 2019 11:32:42 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7062 When evening (or other "off work" time) comes, do you use it well or let it fritter away? What are some ways to make good use of your time off? Laura McClellan 240 240 Making Good Use of Your Evenings full 40:18 https://theproductivewoman.com/lessons-multi-faceted-life-jennifer-eunchim-choi-tpw239/ Wed, 24 Apr 2019 11:49:06 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7044 Episode 239 of The Productive Woman podcast features my conversation with humanitarian aid & community development consultant (and wife and mom) Jennifer Choi, who shares lessons learned about making a multi-faceted, multicultural life that matters. Laura McClellan 239 239 Lessons from a Multi-faceted Life, with Jennifer (Eunchim) Choi full 53:25 https://theproductivewoman.com/theres-nothing-wrong-with-you-tpw238/ Wed, 17 Apr 2019 11:43:38 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7023 Making a life that matters has its challenges--for all of us. Can I encourage you to believe there's nothing wrong with you if you struggle sometimes to make it all work the way you think it should? Laura McClellan 238 238 There's Nothing Wrong with You full 40:42 https://theproductivewoman.com/essential-productivity-tools-tpw237/ Wed, 10 Apr 2019 11:58:49 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=7000 What tools do you think are most important for being productive and making a life that matters? I share my list in this episode--and a couple of them might surprise you. Laura McClellan 237 237 full 47:32 https://theproductivewoman.com/consumption-creation-contribution-tpw236/ Wed, 03 Apr 2019 12:19:19 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6982 Consuming content and learning new things is valuable, but to achieve our goals and make a life that matters, we have to do something with what we learn. Thoughts on consumption, creation, and contribution in this week's episode. Laura McClellan 236 236 Consumption, Creation, and Contribution full 45:05 https://theproductivewoman.com/clutter-minimalism-convenience-tpw235/ Wed, 27 Mar 2019 12:19:26 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6939 Decluttering is a hot topic these days. For some, the logical outcome of decluttering is minimalism. But who we are matters more than what (or how much) we own. Finding a balance between clutter and convenience can contribute to a productive life. Laura McClellan 235 235 Clutter, Minimalism, & Convenience full 35:56 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-across-borders-christiane-kenny-tpw234/ Wed, 20 Mar 2019 12:07:56 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6908 Canadian native Christiane Kenny has moved cross-border (cross-oceans!) more than once. Hear her tips for international living in this week's episode. Laura McClellan 234 234 Productivity Across Borders, with Christiane Kenny full 59:50 https://theproductivewoman.com/how-to-figure-out-what-matters-most-tpw233/ Wed, 13 Mar 2019 12:45:29 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6885 To make a life that matters, we have to know what matters most. How do we decide among all the opportunities and commitments to figure out what matters most--where we can best focus our time, energy, and attention? Laura McClellan 233 233 How to Figure Out What Matters Most full 46:19 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-life-that-matters-your-way-tpw232/ Wed, 06 Mar 2019 13:12:02 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6861 Productivity systems and resources are just tools. They're a means to an end, not the end itself. The end is a life that matters, as you define it. This week's episode looks at productivity, peer pressure, and intentional choices. Laura McClellan 232 232 Making a Life That Matters, YOUR Way full 40:53 https://theproductivewoman.com/lagom-just-enough-jane-andersson-tpw231/ Wed, 27 Feb 2019 13:29:02 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6839 Swedish journalist Jane Andersson recommends the Swedish concept of lagom (loosely translated as "just enough") as a key to making a meaningfully productive life. Laura McClellan 231 231 Lagom (Just Enough), with Jane Andersson full 52:06 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-atomic-habits-james-clear-tpw230/ Wed, 20 Feb 2019 13:14:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6758 In this latest episode of our recurring Productive Reading series, I share my key takeaways from James Clear's outstanding book, Atomic Habits, a book about how small habits can have big impact on our productivity. Laura McClellan 230 230 Productive Reading: Atomic Habits by James Clear full 53:38 https://theproductivewoman.com/make-bad-day-better-tpw229/ Wed, 13 Feb 2019 13:46:55 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6804 We might not be able to stop bad days from coming, but there are things we can do to make a bad day better. Laura McClellan 229 229 How to Make a Bad Day Better full 52:05 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-difference-karina-hayat-tpw228/ Wed, 06 Feb 2019 13:18:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6782 Canadian executive and philanthropist Karina Hayat shares how she makes time for making a difference through focusing on her professional and personal priorities. Laura McClellan 228 228 Making a Difference, with Karina Hayat full 43:54 https://theproductivewoman.com/renew-your-motivation-tpw227/ Wed, 30 Jan 2019 13:22:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6750 Are you making progress on your goals for this year, or has progress slowed because you're not consistently taking action? This episode offers ideas on how to reignite your fading motivation so you can keep moving forward to accomplish what matters most to you. Laura McClellan 227 227 How to Renew Your Motivation full 41:15 https://theproductivewoman.com/habits-consider-this-year-tpw226/ Wed, 23 Jan 2019 13:35:27 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6726 This week we're considering how our habits affect productivity and some suggestions for habits to develop this year. Laura McClellan 226 226 Habits to Consider for this Year full 41:59 https://theproductivewoman.com/mindset-management-natalie-eckdahl-tpw225/ Wed, 16 Jan 2019 13:32:01 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6701 Entrepreneur, business coach, and author Natalie Eckdahl talks about the importance of managing our mindset, and shares how the support of an intentionally assembled team helps her accomplish what matters most to her. Laura McClellan 225 225 Mindset Management, with Natalie Eckdahl full 1:08:44 https://theproductivewoman.com/7-things-stop-doing-this-year-tpw224/ Wed, 09 Jan 2019 13:23:50 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6678 Last week we talked about resolutions and goals--things we plan to start doing this year. This week, let's consider some things to stop doing (and what to do instead). Laura McClellan 224 224 7 Things to Stop Doing This Year full 47:23 https://theproductivewoman.com/resolutions-goals-tpw223/ Wed, 02 Jan 2019 13:43:27 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6636 As the new year begins, are you making resolutions, setting goals, or both? What's the difference, and how can they work together to create the results you want? Laura McClellan 223 223 Resolutions & Goals full 32:22 https://theproductivewoman.com/one-last-thing-matters-most-tpw222/ Wed, 26 Dec 2018 13:41:53 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6634 What matters most to you, and how will you make room for it in your life in the coming year? In this last episode of the year, I share some thoughts I'm pondering as the year ends and a new one begins. Laura McClellan 222 222 One Last Thing (What Matters Most) full 27:40 https://theproductivewoman.com/thoughts-disappointed-tpw221/ Wed, 19 Dec 2018 13:23:48 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6625 Disappointed with your progress toward the goals you set for yourself this year? Let's talk about things you can do to start down a more productive path. Laura McClellan 221 221 Thoughts for the Disappointed full 22:47 https://theproductivewoman.com/creating-centralized-productivity-system-vicky-volvovski-tpw-220/ Wed, 12 Dec 2018 13:35:02 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6605 Tech executive, award-winning food blogger, wife, and mom Vicky Volvovski shares thoughts on managing a busy life with a centralized system, and on brainstorming solutions to challenging projects. Laura McClellan 220 220 Creating a Centralized Productivity System, with Vicky Volvovski full 44:45 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-time-to-plan-tpw219/ Wed, 05 Dec 2018 13:55:24 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6585 Planning ahead is a key to living intentionally rather than reactively. But how do we make time to plan when our days are already full? Laura McClellan 219 219 Making Time to Plan full 25:31 https://theproductivewoman.com/today-tomorrow-year-from-now-tpw218/ Wed, 28 Nov 2018 13:23:54 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6552 Some of us (raising my hand) tend to focus so much on the future that we forget to be present today. On the other hand, it's easy to get so wrapped up in our day-to-day commitments that we forget to step back and look at the long-term big picture. A challenge for many of us is to plan sufficiently for the future without letting worries for the future cloud our present. Laura McClellan 218 218 Today, Tomorrow, & a Year from Now full 38:32 https://theproductivewoman.com/being-intentional-time-laura-vanderkam-tpw217/ Wed, 21 Nov 2018 13:30:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6531 "Time keeps passing whether or not you think about where it's going." Laura Vanderkam, author of Off the Clock & other books about productivity and time management, encourages us to be intentional about how we use our time.. Laura McClellan 217 217 Being Intentional with Time, with Laura Vanderkam full 46:46 https://theproductivewoman.com/habits-that-help-tpw216/ Wed, 14 Nov 2018 13:07:29 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6504 A few simple habits can make a big difference in our day-to-day productivity and help us accomplish more with less effort. In this episode I share a few small habits that help me make time for what matters most. Laura McClellan 216 216 Habits That Help full 48:13 https://theproductivewoman.com/task-management-101-tpw215/ Wed, 07 Nov 2018 13:31:14 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6485 Is your to-do list getting the better of you? Let's review some task management basics that will help you get your list under control and make real progress on the projects that matter most to you. Laura McClellan 215 215 Task Management 101 full 48:30 https://theproductivewoman.com/dealing-conflict-tpw214/ Wed, 31 Oct 2018 12:20:38 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6459 Most of us don't like conflict, but it's an inevitable part of the human condition. It doesn't have to derail our productivity, though--if we can find constructive ways to deal with it. Laura McClellan 214 214 Dealing with Conflict full 50:01 https://theproductivewoman.com/silence-solitude-katie-krimitsos-tpw213/ Wed, 24 Oct 2018 12:27:26 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6441 "If you’re having a hard time getting things done because you're anxious and totally depleting yourself, maybe it's time for you to spend some time on yourself in quiet." Katie Krimitsos returns to The Productive Woman to share lessons learned about the value of silence and solitude in making a life that matters. Laura McClellan 213 213 Silence and Solitude, with Katie Krimitsos full 52:26 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-time-to-read-tpw212/ Wed, 17 Oct 2018 12:15:18 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6418 Why is the Productive Reading series a part of The Productive Woman podcast? Because reading can contribute in a big way to making a life that matters. Laura McClellan 212 212 Making Time to Read full 46:34 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-free-time-formula-tpw211/ Wed, 10 Oct 2018 12:29:54 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6391 Wish you had more free time? Get some practical ideas and wise advice from Jeff Sanders in his newest book, The Free-Time Formula. This is the next in our Productive Reading series. Laura McClellan 211 211 Productive Reading: The Free-Time Formula, by Jeff Sanders full 48:21 https://theproductivewoman.com/what-i-wish-id-known-tpw210/ Wed, 03 Oct 2018 12:25:21 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6363 It’s never too late to do what you’ve dreamed of. A few lessons about productivity and life I wish I'd learned sooner. Laura McClellan 210 210 What I Wish I'd Known full 41:42 https://theproductivewoman.com/mindset-over-money-patrice-washington-tpw209/ Wed, 26 Sep 2018 12:46:03 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6345 "Wealth is about more than money." This week's episode features my conversation with "America's Money Maven," Patrice Washington, about living intentionally, creating a better mindset about money, and making a life that matters.  Laura McClellan 209 209 Mindset Over Money, with Patrice Washington full 52:11 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-a-difference-tpw208/ Wed, 19 Sep 2018 12:23:19 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6325 If our definition of a productive woman is one who orders her life in such a way as to maximize her positive impact in the world, what can we do to expand our influence and make a positive difference in the world around us? Laura McClellan 208 208 Making a Difference full 43:15 https://theproductivewoman.com/peace-productivity-tpw207/ Wed, 12 Sep 2018 12:39:13 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6306 Is it possible to be both productive and peaceful? I believe it is, but I'm not always experiencing it lately. Some thoughts about why, and how to "fix" it, in this week's episode. Laura McClellan 207 207 Productivity & Peace full 44:22 https://theproductivewoman.com/make-life-easier-tpw206/ Wed, 05 Sep 2018 12:23:44 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6266 What apps, tech, tools, and services do you rely on to make your life easier? I share a few of mine in this episode. Laura McClellan 206 206 Things That Make Life Easier full 1:03:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/drawing-courage-past-experiences-tauria-catlin-tpw205/ Wed, 29 Aug 2018 12:25:21 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6244 Wife, mom, entrepreneur, and U.S. Naval Academy graduate Tauria Catlin shares how the challenges she's overcome in the past give her the courage to face today's challenges and make a life that matters to her. Laura McClellan 205 205 Drawing Courage from Past Experiences, with Tauria Catlin full 45:56 https://theproductivewoman.com/preparing-next-season-tpw204/ Wed, 22 Aug 2018 12:55:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6225 In both the northern and southern hemispheres, a change in seasons is upon us. Whether moving from summer to fall, or winter to summer, what are some steps we can take to prepare to make the change of seasons go more smoothly? Laura McClellan 204 204 Preparing for the Next Season full 29:20 https://theproductivewoman.com/13-areas-declutter-homes-tpw203/ Wed, 15 Aug 2018 11:16:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6196 Want to reduce stress, boost productivity, and enjoy your home more? Let's talk about why, how, and where to declutter our homes. Laura McClellan 203 203 13 Areas to Declutter in Our Homes full 48:59 https://theproductivewoman.com/launching-your-kids-tpw202/ Wed, 08 Aug 2018 12:37:50 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6176 When our children grow up and leave our nest, the transition can be hard. How can we make launching our kids a positive experience for them--and us? Laura McClellan 202 202 Launching Your Kids full 46:11 https://theproductivewoman.com/designing-productive-systems-crystal-collinson-tpw201/ Wed, 01 Aug 2018 12:23:13 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=6157 Canadian designer Crystal Collinson juggles multiple roles by setting up productive systems that let her get the important things done. Laura McClellan 201 201 Designing Productive Systems, with Crystal Collinson full 49:04 https://theproductivewoman.com/ask-me-anything-tpw200/ Wed, 25 Jul 2018 11:48:57 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5784 Curious about podcasting? About how I manage a legal career & 5 kids? About productivity tools I recommend and techniques I use? I invited listeners to ask me anything. My answers in this milestone episode 200 of The Productive Woman podcast. Laura McClellan 200 200 Ask Me Anything full 1:40:21 https://theproductivewoman.com/what-a-life-that-matters-means-tpw199/ Wed, 18 Jul 2018 12:14:09 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5771 For four years and nearly 200 episodes, we've talked in The Productive Woman community about making a life that matters. What does that mean? Laura McClellan 199 199 What a Life That Matters Means full 42:41 https://theproductivewoman.com/6-questions-mid-year-tpw198/ Wed, 11 Jul 2018 12:31:45 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5745 Are you on track for the year you want? Mid-year is a great time to pause and ask yourself some key questions to focus your energy and attention for the second half of the year. Laura McClellan 198 198 6 Questions to Ask Yourself Mid-Year full 41:31 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-freedom-tpw197/ Wed, 04 Jul 2018 12:27:19 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5723 Being productive in the best sense can result in the freedom that comes from the confidence that you are enough, you’re doing enough, and you can create a meaningful life. This episode looks at connections between productivity and freedom. Laura McClellan 197 197 Productivity and Freedom full 40:20 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-retirement-change-vicki-judd-tpw196/ Wed, 27 Jun 2018 12:28:41 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5709 How does the definition of productivity change from one stage of life to the next? Recent retiree Vicki Judd shares some thoughts on making a life that matters during the changing seasons of life. Laura McClellan 196 196 Productivity, Retirement, and Change, with Vicki Judd full 50:00 https://theproductivewoman.com/when-you-feel-like-quitting-tpw195/ Wed, 20 Jun 2018 12:39:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5693 Do you ever feel like quitting? I do. Knowing why it happens can help us come up with solutions and keep pressing forward toward accomplishing what matters most. Laura McClellan 195 195 When You Feel Like Quitting full 29:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-ways-stay-focused-tpw194/ Wed, 13 Jun 2018 12:23:14 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5677 What can we do to stay on track when we're struggling to stay focused? This week we look at some possible reasons for that struggle, and some ideas that might help. Laura McClellan 194 194 10 (or so) Ways to Stay Focused full 38:39 https://theproductivewoman.com/insights-organized-soprano-kay-patterson-tpw193/ Wed, 06 Jun 2018 12:24:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5654 Juggling two very different careers requires careful balancing and self-awareness. Professional organizer and singer Kay Patterson (known on social media as The Organized Soprano) shares how she does it--and has a lot of fun along the way. Laura McClellan 193 193 Insights from The Organized Soprano, with Kay Patterson full 47:51 https://theproductivewoman.com/quantified-self-tpw192/ Wed, 30 May 2018 10:56:38 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5624 Tracking and measuring personal metrics as a tool for self-improvement has benefits for individuals and groups, but those of us interested in the quantified self should be aware of potential risks as well. Laura McClellan 192 192 The Quantified Self full 40:51 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-time-for-fun-tpw191/ Wed, 23 May 2018 12:35:31 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5605 Have we filled our days with so many commitments we've left no time for fun? Worse, have we forgotten how to have fun? The TPW community has some suggestions to help us correct that! Laura McClellan 191 191 Making Time for Fun full 44:48 https://theproductivewoman.com/juggling-multiple-roles-coryne-forest-tpw190/ Wed, 16 May 2018 12:23:29 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5579 Engineer and leadership consultant Coryne Forest shares tips on how she manages multiple roles and multiple passions--a fulltime day job, a business helping women excel in STEM careers, her family, and self-care. Laura McClellan 190 190 Juggling Multiple Roles, with Coryne Forest full 48:58 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-for-new-moms-tpw189/ Wed, 09 May 2018 12:27:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5561 Becoming a mom is a wonderful thing, but it has some challenges, too. How can new moms be productive in the best sense? Laura McClellan 189 189 Productivity for New Moms full 43:00 https://theproductivewoman.com/dealing-downsizing-tpw188/ Wed, 02 May 2018 12:23:17 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5534 Bigger isn't always better. In this episode we consider the why and how of downsizing your home. Laura McClellan 188 188 Dealing with Downsizing (Your Home) full 29:28 https://theproductivewoman.com/becoming-chief-home-officer-with-natali-morris-tpw187/ Wed, 25 Apr 2018 12:38:23 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5517 Broadcaster and CFO Natali Morris is intentional about creating a life that matters through financial freedom, and she shares with us how she and her husband worked to make that a reality for their family. Laura McClellan 187 187 Becoming Chief Home Officer, with Natali Morris full 45:00 https://theproductivewoman.com/spring-cleaning-dont-have-time-tpw186/ Wed, 18 Apr 2018 12:31:17 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5490 Got the spring cleaning bug but little time to get it done? Some tips for fitting it into your schedule--if you want to!--in this episode. Laura McClellan 186 186 Spring Cleaning When You Don’t Have Time full 42:59 https://theproductivewoman.com/tips-tools-email-mastery-tpw185/ Wed, 11 Apr 2018 12:08:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5471 How can we make email less overwhelming and more useful? A few tips and tools that can help. Laura McClellan 185 185 Tips and Tools for Email Mastery full 46:23 https://theproductivewoman.com/discernment-self-care-jodi-womack-tpw-184/ Wed, 04 Apr 2018 12:17:38 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5448 What role do discernment and self-care play in a meaningfully productive life? Executive coach & author Jodi Womack shares some tips and tools in this week's episode. Laura McClellan 184 184 Discernment and Self-Care, with Jodi Womack full 52:36 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-non-standard-schedule-tpw183/ Wed, 28 Mar 2018 12:23:57 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5428 Many productivity conversations assume a 9 to 5 work schedule. How can you stay productive if you or others in your household work nights or weekends or some other non-standard schedule? Laura McClellan 183 183 Productivity on a Non-Standard Schedule full 52:06 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-soulful-simplicity-tpw-182/ Wed, 21 Mar 2018 12:17:52 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5396 Courtney Carver's newest book, Soulful Simplicity, makes a compelling case for clearing the clutter out of our schedules, our homes, and our minds to make space for a meaningfully productive life. Laura McClellan 182 182 Productive Reading: Soulful Simplicity full 52:11 https://theproductivewoman.com/time-management-balance-susan-may-warren-tpw-181/ Wed, 14 Mar 2018 12:27:13 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5375 Award-winning author Susan May Warren shares how she gets things done by using a time management approach that keeps rhythm, balance, and the big picture in mind. Laura McClellan 181 181 Time Management & Balance, with Susan May Warren full 55:47 https://theproductivewoman.com/having-it-all-tpw180/ Wed, 07 Mar 2018 13:39:55 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5355 Is "having it all" a possibility for 21st-century women (or men)? What does having it all mean to you? We consider some important questions in this episode. Laura McClellan 180 180 Having It All full 54:09 https://theproductivewoman.com/motivation-and-habit-tpw-179/ Wed, 28 Feb 2018 13:23:40 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5325 How do motivation and habit interact to get and keep us productive? Laura McClellan 179 179 Motivation and Habit full 41:41 https://theproductivewoman.com/pursuing-vocational-avocational-passions-tyree-ayers-tpw-178/ Wed, 21 Feb 2018 13:31:04 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5302 Lawyer and yogi Tyree Ayers is constantly balancing the demands of her law career and passion for living a healthy and fulfilling life and encouraging others to do the same. She shares how she makes time to pursue both her vocational and avocational passions. Laura McClellan 178 178 Pursuing Vocational & Avocational Passions, with Tyree Ayers full 48:42 https://theproductivewoman.com/relationships-productivity-tpw177/ Wed, 14 Feb 2018 13:45:27 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5288 How do your relationships affect your productivity? And how can you make time to nurture the relationships--professional & personal--that mean the most to you? Laura McClellan 177 177 Relationships & Productivity full 41:31 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-tools-techniques-to-try-tpw176/ Wed, 07 Feb 2018 13:40:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5275 If your year got off to a strong start but your progress is faltering a bit, tweaking your routine with one of these productivity tools and techniques might give you a boost. Laura McClellan 176 176 Productivity Tools & Techniques to Try full 46:11 https://theproductivewoman.com/delegation-tpw-175/ Wed, 31 Jan 2018 13:24:33 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5252 Delegation is a key productivity tool. So why don't we do it more? In response to a listener question, we take a look at how delegation can help us to be more productive, and how we can improve our delegation skills. Laura McClellan 175 175 Delegation full 43:45 https://theproductivewoman.com/grace-filled-productivity-liz-curtis-higgs-tpw174/ Wed, 24 Jan 2018 13:51:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5239 It's easy to fall into the traps of self-criticism and negativity when your productivity isn't where you want it to be, whether the cause is self-inflicted or out of your control. Author and speaker Liz Curtis Higgs shares how she overcomes these challenges. Laura McClellan 174 174 Grace-Filled Productivity, with Liz Curtis Higgs full 56:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/focus-tpw173/ Wed, 17 Jan 2018 13:24:28 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5222 The better we're able to focus on what matters most, the more productive we'll be. This week we're discussing how focus impacts our productivity and how we can improve our focus. Laura McClellan 173 173 Focus (a word for the year) full 49:32 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-essentials-making-life-that-matters-tpw172/ Wed, 10 Jan 2018 13:26:07 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5203 If you want to make a life that matters, where do you start? In this episode we're looking at 10 essentials to building a meaningfully productive life. Laura McClellan 172 172 10 Essentials for Making a Life that Matters full 50:05 https://theproductivewoman.com/financial-empowerment-hilary-hendershott-tpw-171/ Wed, 03 Jan 2018 13:39:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5188 We're kicking off the new year with some valuable lessons on financial empowerment and productivity from Certified Financial Planner, podcaster, wife, and mom Hilary Hendershott. Laura McClellan 171 171 Financial Empowerment, with Hilary Hendershott full 52:47 https://theproductivewoman.com/taking-care-of-future-you-tpw-170/ Wed, 13 Dec 2017 13:19:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5169 As we wrap up the year, it's a great time to review this year's accomplishments and give some thought to the coming year. What would future you thank you for doing today? Laura McClellan 170 170 Taking Care of Future You full 41:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/voluntary-simplicity-courtney-carver-tpw169/ Wed, 06 Dec 2017 13:28:53 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5150 Writer and speaker Courtney Carver shares insights about voluntary simplicity and intentional living. Laura McClellan 169 169 Voluntary Simplicity, with Courtney Carver full 49:16 https://theproductivewoman.com/community-accountability-mastermind-reunion-tpw168/ Wed, 29 Nov 2017 13:22:10 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5132 The support and accountability of other women can improve your productivity. Five women who've been providing each other that support and accountability for over a year and a half share their experience. Laura McClellan 168 168 Community & Accountability - a mastermind reunion full 1:03:35 https://theproductivewoman.com/gratitude-productivity-tpw167/ Wed, 22 Nov 2017 13:25:18 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5110 The beginning of the winter holiday season seems like a good time to consider how gratitude can affect our productivity. Laura McClellan 167 167 Gratitude & Productivity full 39:04 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-lessons-from-brene-brown-tpw166/ Wed, 15 Nov 2017 13:13:36 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5086 Dr. Brené Brown's books offer ideas and principles that can help us in making a life that matters. Laura McClellan 166 166 Productive Reading: Lessons from Brené Brown full 43:21 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-what-other-people-think-tpw-165/ Wed, 08 Nov 2017 13:22:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5068 It’s hard to make a life that matters when we’re spending our time reacting to what other people want instead of proactively pursuing the goals and objectives that are most important to us. Laura McClellan 165 165 Productivity & What Other People Think full 48:52 https://theproductivewoman.com/self-direction-maria-bengtson-tpw164/ Wed, 01 Nov 2017 12:28:49 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5048 We can all learn some lessons on self-direction from graduate student and TPW listener Maria Bengtson, who shares how she keeps herself on track to finish her dissertation while still living her life. Laura McClellan 164 164 Self-Direction, with Maria Bengtson full 43:14 https://theproductivewoman.com/clutter-stress-simplicity-tpw163/ Wed, 25 Oct 2017 12:29:48 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=5023 Taking a look at physical & mental clutter--how it affects us, and some thoughts on conquering it. Laura McClellan 163 163 Clutter, Stress & Simplicity full 41:48 https://theproductivewoman.com/circumstance-choice-owning-your-life-tpw162/ Wed, 18 Oct 2017 12:20:22 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4995 When life is filled with obligations that leave us feeling overwhelmed, do we have a choice? Can we make a change? Laura McClellan 162 162 Circumstance or Choice? Owning Your Life full 43:36 https://theproductivewoman.com/caregiver-professional-priorities-beatriz-martin-perez-tpw161/ Wed, 11 Oct 2017 12:23:42 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4970 Professor Beatriz Martín-Pérez shares how she's navigated the challenges of caring for loved ones while pursuing professional success. Laura McClellan 161 161 A Caregiver with Professional Priorities, with Beatriz Martín-Pérez full 53:03 https://theproductivewoman.com/self-care-matters-tpw160/ Wed, 04 Oct 2017 12:06:22 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4950 Self-care is not time off from productivity; it's an essential element of a productive life. How can we make time for self-care in an already full life--and why should we? Laura McClellan 160 160 Self-Care Matters full 43:18 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-things-prepare-holidays-tpw159/ Wed, 27 Sep 2017 12:17:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4933 Is it too soon to start celebrating the holidays? Probably. But not too soon for a few steps that can help us prepare for the best holiday season ever. Laura McClellan 159 159 10 Things to Do Now to Prepare for the Holidays full 31:12 https://theproductivewoman.com/ruthless-prioritization-michelle-pfennighaus-tpw158/ Wed, 20 Sep 2017 12:37:40 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4911 Nutrition coach and former advertising professional Michelle Pfennighaus shares thoughts about how ruthless prioritization (and banana peel tea) help her manage a busy life. Laura McClellan 158 158 Ruthless Prioritization, with Michelle Pfennighaus full 39:07 https://theproductivewoman.com/school-routines-review-tpw157/ Wed, 13 Sep 2017 12:12:40 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4888 The back-to-school season (or any change in seasons, for that matter) is a great time to re-evaluate our daily and weekly routines to make sure they're serving us. Laura McClellan 157 157 Back to School Routine Review full 42:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/raising-productive-kids-tpw156/ Wed, 06 Sep 2017 12:21:00 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4868 Some thoughts on what it means to raise productive kids, and how to do it. Laura McClellan 156 156 Raising Productive Kids full 45:41 https://theproductivewoman.com/life-productive-musician-sephra-scheuber-tpw155/ Wed, 30 Aug 2017 12:27:07 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4854 Sephra Scheuber is working out a system that allows her to be productive as a musician, a teacher, and a student, while making her faith and her relationships a priority. Laura McClellan 155 155 Life as a Productive Musician, with Sephra Scheuber full 48:30 https://theproductivewoman.com/working-from-home-tpw154/ Wed, 23 Aug 2017 12:46:16 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4826 Some thoughts about making it work when you work from home. Laura McClellan 154 154 Working from Home full 50:00 https://theproductivewoman.com/post-vacation-productivity-tpw153/ Wed, 16 Aug 2017 12:23:40 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4808 Getting back into your regular routine after a vacation without sacrificing the relaxation you gained can be a challenge. Here are some thoughts on how (and why) to do it. Laura McClellan 153 153 Post-Vacation Productivity full 46:47 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-time-for-what-matters-sonia-harris-tpw152/ Wed, 09 Aug 2017 12:32:18 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4763 When you have a full-time job and a family, how do you make time for what matters to you personally? Sonia Harris shares how she's doing it. Laura McClellan 152 152 Making Time for What Matters, with Sonia Harris full 54:47 https://theproductivewoman.com/letting-go-goal-tpw151/ Wed, 02 Aug 2017 12:32:31 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4742 When we're not making progress on a goal we've set for ourselves, is letting go ever the right choice? Laura McClellan 151 151 Letting Go of a Goal full 40:34 https://theproductivewoman.com/the-weekly-review-tpw150/ Wed, 26 Jul 2017 12:32:44 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4712 A regular weekly review helps us stay on top of our commitments. So why don't we do it? In response to a listener question, we look at how (and why) to make the weekly review a part of managing our busy lives. Laura McClellan 150 150 The Weekly Review full 47:47 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-chronic-pain-mandy-hanson-tpw149/ Wed, 19 Jul 2017 12:37:03 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4696 Mandy Hanson's approach to productivity offers ideas even for those of us who don't live with chronic pain like she does. Laura McClellan 149 149 Productivity When It Hurts, with Mandy Hanson full 46:57 https://theproductivewoman.com/second-half-mid-year-review-tpw148/ Wed, 12 Jul 2017 12:27:06 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4674 The year's midpoint is a good time to pause and review whether you're headed in the direction you want to go. Laura McClellan 148 148 The Second Half (Mid-Year Review) full 48:39 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-power-habit-tpw147/ Wed, 05 Jul 2017 12:53:52 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4656 Continuing our occasional series on books that have influenced my thinking about what it means to live a productive life, this episode features some of the highlights from Charles Duhigg's fascinating book about habits. Laura McClellan 147 147 Productive Reading: The Power of Habit full 41:55 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-days-shelly-clayton-tpw146/ Wed, 28 Jun 2017 12:44:16 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4631 Sales professional and single mom Shelly Clayton shares her approach to creating productive days and making a life that matters. Laura McClellan 146 146 Productive Days, with Shelly Clayton full 38:03 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-the-most-of-your-to-do-list-tpw145/ Wed, 21 Jun 2017 12:39:27 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4610 How well does your to-do list work for you? This episode features 10 tips for making the most of whatever tool you use to manage your tasks. Laura McClellan 145 145 Making the Most of Your To-Do List full 36:08 https://theproductivewoman.com/words-we-say-tpw144/ Wed, 14 Jun 2017 12:44:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4591 How do the words we say (and think) affect our ability to accomplish the things we care about? Laura McClellan 144 144 The Things We Say full 40:03 https://theproductivewoman.com/managing-multiple-roles-jennifer-fleury-tpw143/ Wed, 07 Jun 2017 12:32:07 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4536 How can you manage a life that involves multiple roles and a variety of interests? College professor, business owner, & single mom Jennifer Fleury shares how she's doing it. Laura McClellan 143 143 Managing Multiple Roles, with Jennifer Fleury full 50:46 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-transition-times-tpw142/ Wed, 31 May 2017 12:50:40 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4514 We’ve talked about the value of planning ahead to keep life moving smoothly, but what about when you can’t? What do you do when your life is in transition, you can’t plan ahead, and your routines get thrown out of whack? Laura McClellan 142 142 Productivity in Transition Times full 38:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/sunday-routines-tpw141/ Wed, 24 May 2017 12:59:23 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4497 Once again The Productive Woman community came through with ideas for how to spend time on Sunday (or whatever day you choose) setting yourself up for a great week. Laura McClellan 141 141 Sunday Routines full 35:42 https://theproductivewoman.com/optimizing-your-schedule-katie-krimitsos-tpw140/ Wed, 17 May 2017 13:03:32 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4483 A chat with business coach, podcaster, wife, and mom Katie Krimitsos, who shared her approach to balancing structure and flexibility in building a schedule that works for her and her family. Laura McClellan 140 140 Optimizing Your Schedule, with Katie Krimitsos full 42:01 https://theproductivewoman.com/what-ive-learned-about-productivity-tpw139/ Wed, 10 May 2017 12:24:14 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4468 Recorded with a milestone in mind, this episode features a few thoughts about what it means (to me) to live a productive life--and how that's changed over time. Laura McClellan 139 139 What I've Learned About Productivity full 34:50 https://theproductivewoman.com/stories-your-life-tpw138/ Wed, 03 May 2017 12:57:42 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4449 Few things have more impact on how we experience our life--on what we accomplish or what we don’t, whether we’re happy or not--than the stories we tell ourselves about who we are and what's possible for us. Laura McClellan 138 138 The Stories of Your Life full 47:44 https://theproductivewoman.com/personalizing-systems-freya-casey-tpw137/ Wed, 26 Apr 2017 12:12:09 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4434 Professional singer, vocal coach, and YouTube star Freya Casey of Germany is also a single mom to a young daughter. She shares some of the systems and tools she uses to manage it all--and some of the struggles she's faced--in this episode. Laura McClellan 137 137 Personalizing Your Systems, with Freya Casey full 39:44 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-time-for-exercise-tpw136/ Wed, 19 Apr 2017 12:52:13 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4420 When a listener asked for suggestions on how to fit exercise into an already jam-packed life, The Productive Woman community came through in a big way. Inspired by a conversation in The Productive Woman Community Facebook group, we look at why exercise is important, and how we can get it done. Laura McClellan 136 136 Making Time for Exercise (Ideas from the TPW Community) full 36:00 https://theproductivewoman.com/sometimes-its-all-too-much-tpw135/ Wed, 12 Apr 2017 12:21:39 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4405 Many women (and men) are struggling to manage a job, children, a spouse, or life as a single parent. On top of that we're trying to find time for personal interests (or just to get some sleep). What do you do when it's all too much? Laura McClellan 135 135 Sometimes It's All Too Much full 29:32 https://theproductivewoman.com/using-powers-good-amanda-berlin-tpw134/ Wed, 05 Apr 2017 12:34:03 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4386 This week's guest, public relations pro and single mom Amanda Berlin, is all about making the best use of her talents and skills to make a life (and a career) that matters--she calls it using her powers for good. Laura McClellan 134 134 Using Your Powers for Good, with Amanda Berlin full 46:08 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-reading-one-thing-gary-keller-tpw133/ Wed, 29 Mar 2017 11:41:52 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4362 This episode, sharing key takeaways from Gary Keller's The ONE Thing, is the first in a new recurring series in which I'll share key takeaways from some of the books that have influenced my thinking on productivity and making a life that matters. Laura McClellan 133 133 Productive Reading: The One Thing, by Gary Keller full 43:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/herding-cats-multiple-projects-tpw132/ Wed, 22 Mar 2017 11:22:53 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4346 Very few of us have only one project going at a time. The many roles we play in life, our various areas of interest and responsibility, all can be sources of projects that compete for our time, energy, and attention. Managing those multiple projects is a challenge that requires intention and discipline. This episode offers a few tips that might help. Laura McClellan 132 132 Herding Cats: Managing Multiple Projects full 35:02 https://theproductivewoman.com/prioritize-what-matters-maria-dismondy-tpw131/ Wed, 15 Mar 2017 12:21:27 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4329 Award-winning author Maria Dismondy knows what matters to her and is determined to prioritize those things. In this episode, she shares how she's intentionally built her life around her most important priorities. Laura McClellan 131 131 Prioritize What Matters, with Maria Dismondy full 41:45 https://theproductivewoman.com/whats-on-your-to-do-list-tpw130/ Wed, 08 Mar 2017 13:35:14 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4308 What's on your to-do list? If you have some "tasks" that have hung around on that list for a long time with no action, they might not be tasks at all. This episode looks at the difference between a project and a task, and why forming your to-do list with the right one can help get you past procrastination into action. Laura McClellan 130 130 What's On Your To-Do List? full 27:59 https://theproductivewoman.com/dream-to-done-applying-process-tpw129/ Wed, 01 Mar 2017 13:25:14 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4294 We've spent a few episodes talking about the process of turning a dream to a goal and then taking action on it. Sometimes it helps to hear examples of how a process works. This episode is a walk-through of the Dream to Done process applied, step by step, to two examples. Laura McClellan 129 129 Dream to Done: Applying the Goal-Setting Process full 34:46 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-life-your-terms-kesha-moore-tpw128/ Wed, 22 Feb 2017 13:23:23 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4278 We all face challenges in our journey toward making a meaningfully productive life. My guest in this episode, Dr. Kesha Moore, reminds us how we choose to approach those challenges will make all the difference. Laura McClellan 128 128 A Productive Life on Your Terms, with Kesha Moore full 44:24 https://theproductivewoman.com/make-time-stay-motivated-tpw127/ Wed, 15 Feb 2017 13:48:14 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4257 Continuing our Dream to Done mini-series, this time we’re looking at what to do once we’ve created a goal: how to make time to take action on it, and how to motivate ourselves to keep going until we’ve completed it. Laura McClellan 127 127 Dream to Done: Make the Time & Stay Motivated full 40:51 https://theproductivewoman.com/dream-to-goal-tpw126/ Wed, 08 Feb 2017 13:48:28 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4234 Part 2 of our Dream to Done mini-series looks at the difference between a dream and a goal, and offers some steps to turning your dream into a goal (or series of goals) that you can actually take action on. Laura McClellan 126 126 Dream to Done: Turning a Dream to a Goal full 40:28 https://theproductivewoman.com/dream-done-tpw125/ Wed, 01 Feb 2017 14:04:42 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4214 When we are uncertain of where or how to start, our dreams may seem out of reach. What stands between you and your dream of a life that matters? Laura McClellan 125 125 Dream to Done: What's Holding You Back? full 39:12 https://theproductivewoman.com/bullet-journaling-kara-benz-tpw124/ Wed, 25 Jan 2017 14:08:23 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4187 Artist and author Kara Benz (also known as Boho Berry) and I talk about building a business and living an intentional life--and a little about bullet journaling. Laura McClellan 124 124 Bullet Journaling & More, with Kara Benz full 46:41 https://theproductivewoman.com/small-tasks-for-success-tpw123/ Wed, 18 Jan 2017 14:05:09 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4171 Big goals are awesome, but here are 14 simple things--small tasks that will take half an hour or less--that you can do this week (or next) to simplify your life and set yourself up for a great year. Laura McClellan 123 123 Small Tasks That Will Set You Up for Success full 39:41 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-organized-lisa-woodruff-tpw122/ Wed, 11 Jan 2017 14:12:38 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4150 Managing a multi-dimensional 21st-century life is easier when you're organized. Fortunately, professional organizer Lisa Woodruff says being organized is a learnable skill. In this episode we chat about how she does it, and she shares some tips AND offers some great free resources! Laura McClellan 122 122 Getting Organized in the New Year, with Lisa Woodruff full 51:26 https://theproductivewoman.com/resolutions-expectations-new-year-tpw121/ Wed, 04 Jan 2017 13:12:35 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=4130 As the new year begins, are you making resolutions you'll abandon in a month or setting achievable goals? Are you basing your goals on unconscious expectations, or looking forward with a sense of expectancy? Laura McClellan 121 121 Resolutions & Expectations for a New Year full 34:37 https://theproductivewoman.com/year-end-wrap-up-tpw120/ Wed, 14 Dec 2016 14:07:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3984 As 2016 comes to a close, my year-end wrap-up process is a way to take a look at lessons learned this year and use them to create a plan for an even better year to come. Laura McClellan 120 120 Year-End Wrap-Up full 35:11 https://theproductivewoman.com/balance-time-energy-puja-madan-tpw119/ Wed, 07 Dec 2016 13:39:14 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3834 For author and leadership coach Puja Madan, one key to living a meaningully productive life is found by tuning in to the rhythms of life, time, & energy. Laura McClellan 119 119 Balancing Time & Energy, with Puja Madan full 45:43 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-peaceful-holidays-tpw118/ Wed, 30 Nov 2016 14:15:48 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3805 Most of us look forward to the holidays, but the season has its challenges. How can we stay peaceful and enjoy the season? Laura McClellan 118 118 Staying Productive & Peaceful During the Holidays full 41:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/give-yourself-a-break-tpw117/ Wed, 23 Nov 2016 14:12:47 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3789 Productivity doesn't mean "doing stuff" all the time, and you don't need to feel guilty for taking a break. Laura McClellan 117 117 Give Yourself a Break full 33:16 https://theproductivewoman.com/accountability-support-focus-tasha-scott-tpw116/ Wed, 16 Nov 2016 14:11:00 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3769 When it comes to staying focused and productive in a multi-faceted life, a support system can make all the difference. Author & life coach Tasha Scott and I talked about how she makes it work. Laura McClellan 116 116 Accountability, Support, & Focus, with Tasha Scott full 38:34 https://theproductivewoman.com/mindset-matters-productive-skills-tpw115/ Wed, 09 Nov 2016 14:12:45 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3754 Nobody's born organized. It's a skill, and we can learn it. Continuing on our "Mindset Matters" theme, this week we look at that and other skills we can learn to be more productive. Laura McClellan 115 115 Mindset Matters: Productive Skills full 41:54 https://theproductivewoman.com/mindset-matters-productive-habits-tpw114/ Wed, 02 Nov 2016 13:09:31 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3739 Our habits can have either productive or unproductive results. In this episode we look at how habits are formed, and how we can mold them to get the results we want. Laura McClellan 114 114 Mindset Matters: Productive Habits full 46:12 https://theproductivewoman.com/being-present-productive-alissa-smith-tpw113/ Wed, 26 Oct 2016 13:08:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3711 New Zealand graphic designer and yoga teacher Alissa Smith shares her approach to balancing a life of diverse interests and commitments and being present in whatever you're doing. Laura McClellan 113 113 Being Present & Productive, with Alissa Smith full 48:01 https://theproductivewoman.com/mindset-matters-productive-beliefs-tpw112/ Wed, 19 Oct 2016 13:13:25 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3692 What we believe can make us more productive, or less so. What do you believe about yourself, about your abilities and options, about your circumstances? Do your beliefs about these things help you be more productive? Laura McClellan 112 112 Mindset Matters: Productive Beliefs full 42:39 https://theproductivewoman.com/time-thieves-tpw111/ Wed, 12 Oct 2016 13:11:17 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3678 Time thieves steal time we could otherwise spend on what really matters to us. What are time thieves, and how can we defend ourselves against them? Laura McClellan 111 111 Time Thieves full 45:44 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-time-work-rashelle-isip-tpw110/ Wed, 05 Oct 2016 13:09:32 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3645 Organization expert Rashelle Isip joins me to talk about ways we can take control of our schedules and our space, making room for the things that matter most. Laura McClellan 110 110 Making Time Work For You, with Rashelle Isip full 48:56 https://theproductivewoman.com/emergency-stress-protocol-tpw109/ Wed, 28 Sep 2016 13:05:25 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3629 When the demands of a busy life start to "stress you out," how do you handle it? It's important to have a strategy in place when stressful situations arise. Recently when I began to feel overwhelmed by the stress of multiple demands at work, I implemented my Emergency Stress Protocol. I thought I'd share it with you, in case it helps. Laura McClellan 109 109 Emergency Stress Protocol full 30:29 https://theproductivewoman.com/mindset-matters-productive-attitudes-tpw108/ Wed, 21 Sep 2016 11:32:18 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3614 Productivity isn't only about using the right tools and techniques; it's also about having the right mindset. Our attitudes can make all the difference in our productivity. Laura McClellan 108 108 Mindset Matters: Productive Attitudes full 45:55 https://theproductivewoman.com/coordinate-compromise-jessica-rhodes-tpw107/ Wed, 14 Sep 2016 13:08:49 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3602 How do you manage competing priorities of a business and a family you love? Jessica Rhodes, founder and CEO of Interview Connections, shares her thoughts on being a business owner and a mom of two littles, and the role that compromise plays in having it all. Laura McClellan 107 107 Coordinate and Compromise, with CEO Jessica Rhodes full 44:16 https://theproductivewoman.com/current-favorite-productivity-tools-tpw106/ Wed, 07 Sep 2016 13:11:17 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3583 In response to recent questions, I thought it was a good time to give an update on some of the productivity tools that help me get the right things done. I'd love to hear about the tools that help you stay productive. Laura McClellan 106 106 My Current Favorite Productivity Tools (an Update) full 43:46 https://theproductivewoman.com/all-these-memories-tpw105/ Wed, 31 Aug 2016 13:13:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3570 Most of us save certain items with sentimental value, things that trigger special memories for us. For some of us (not naming names), everything has sentimental value, and the mementos can turn to clutter. What if we need to downsize the number of mementos we've saved? How can we better manage our mementos? Laura McClellan 105 105 What Should I Do With All These Memories? full 44:34 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-challenges-introverts-extroverts-tpw104/ Wed, 24 Aug 2016 13:08:58 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3547 Many aspects of our personality can affect what productivity approaches and tools work for us, and what challenges we face in making a productive life. In this episode we look at some of the unique productivity challenges and strengths of introverts and extroverts. Laura McClellan 104 104 Productivity Challenges of Introverts & Extroverts full 41:09 https://theproductivewoman.com/money-coach-jennifer-hemphill-tpw103/ Wed, 17 Aug 2016 13:08:46 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3527 I recently sat down for a conversation about productivity, self-care, and attitudes about money with money coach Jennifer Hemphill. I did it for the TPW listeners, but I ended up taking notes for myself. Laura McClellan 103 103 Money & Productivity, with Money Coach Jennifer Hemphill full 48:32 https://theproductivewoman.com/waiting-for-what-tpw102/ Wed, 10 Aug 2016 13:16:41 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3507 Waiting. It’s something that we all have to do--often reluctantly--at times, but so often, we CHOOSE to wait. We tell ourselves that we can’t take action or move forward. Let’s talk about why we need to STOP WAITING and start making progress toward the goals that matter most to us! Laura McClellan 102 102 What Are You Waiting For? full 35:30 https://theproductivewoman.com/bullet-journal-experiment-tpw101/ Wed, 03 Aug 2016 13:05:43 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3492 Have you tried using a Bullet Journal? You know I love my digital task manager, but I've been trying something new--and I like it! Laura McClellan 101 101 My Bullet Journal Experiment full 43:56 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-a-life-that-matters-tpw100/ Wed, 27 Jul 2016 13:18:40 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3456 It was an honor (and a lot of fun) to celebrate the 100th episode of The Productive Woman with Natalie Eckdahl, founder of Biz Chix, a supportive online community for women entrepreneurs. But Natalie wasn't my guest. Instead, I let Natalie turn the tables on me! Laura McClellan 100 100 Making a Life (& Podcast) that Matters, with Laura McClellan & Natalie Eckdahl full 1:03:16 https://theproductivewoman.com/contentment-mary-demuth-tpw099/ Wed, 20 Jul 2016 13:13:27 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3439 Measuring our worth by our accomplishments, or by other people's opinions of us, leads to insecurity and exhaustion. Not exactly a recipe for a meaningfully productive life. Author Mary DeMuth has some wise advice for counteracting those tendencies and finding contentment. Laura McClellan 99 99 Self-Worth & Contentment, with Mary DeMuth full 38:43 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-small-changes-tpw098/ Wed, 13 Jul 2016 13:09:00 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3421 You don't have to completely overhaul your life to make progress toward your goals. Small changes can reap big rewards in making a meaningfully productive life. Laura McClellan 98 98 10 Small Changes You Can Make to Boost Productivity (& One Bonus Tip) full 56:13 https://theproductivewoman.com/2-years-lessons-learned-tpw097/ Wed, 06 Jul 2016 13:07:21 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3400 Celebrate The Productive Woman's 2-year anniversary with me by looking back at some of the wise insights I’ve gleaned from conversations with the amazing productive women who've joined me on the show. Laura McClellan 97 97 2 Years, 10 Lessons Learned from My Guests full 57:16 https://theproductivewoman.com/defining-success-eboni-nelson-tpw096/ Wed, 29 Jun 2016 13:12:25 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3376 Law professor, wife, and mom Eboni Nelson encourages us to look to ourselves to create our own happiness and success, without apology and without guilt. Laura McClellan 96 96 Defining Success & Trusting Yourself, With Eboni Nelson full 53:08 https://theproductivewoman.com/mid-year-review-tpw095/ Wed, 22 Jun 2016 13:22:02 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3350 We've reached the middle point of the year, so it's time for a mid-year review. How are you progressing on the goals you set for yourself in January? I'm sharing the process I use to figure out how I'm doing and make sure I stay on track for a productive year. Laura McClellan 95 95 Doing a Mid-Year Review full 40:15 https://theproductivewoman.com/body-image-melissa-toler-tpw094/ Wed, 15 Jun 2016 13:12:42 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3340 What would you do if you didn’t feel held back by how you perceive your body? Body image coach Melissa Toler has some suggestions on how we can set aside body image worries and live the life we dream of. Laura McClellan 94 94 How Body Image Affects Productivity, with Melissa Toler full 36:03 https://theproductivewoman.com/balanced-life-tpw093/ Wed, 08 Jun 2016 13:14:03 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3309 What does it mean to live a balanced life? Is it even possible in the 21st century? In this episode we looked at these questions and considered some steps we can take to figure out what balance is right for us, and how to create it. Laura McClellan 93 93 Living a Balanced Life full 42:52 https://theproductivewoman.com/food-on-the-table-tpw092/ Wed, 01 Jun 2016 13:18:17 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3278 Getting tasty and nutritious meals on the table as part of a busy schedule can be a challenge. When listeners asked for help with this ongoing task, I reached out to our Productive Woman community for ideas on how to streamline the process. And the community came through with some great tips and suggestions! Laura McClellan 92 92 Let's Eat! Listener Tips for Getting Food on the Table full 53:30 https://theproductivewoman.com/personalized-productivity-elsie-escobar-tpw091/ Wed, 25 May 2016 14:07:13 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3255 Podcast pro and entrepreneur Elsie Escobar is a passionate advocate for women finding their own voice and their own way--even when it comes to productivity. She shared some of her tips for managing a busy life, and a lot of encouragement, during our conversation for this episode. Laura McClellan 91 91 Personalized Productivity, with Elsie Escobar full 51:09 https://theproductivewoman.com/staying-productive-tpw090/ Wed, 18 May 2016 14:13:09 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3231 A look at a few of the tools, routines, and motivators that have been helping me stay productive these days. Laura McClellan 90 90 What's Keeping Me Productive full 49:17 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-when-sick-tpw089/ Wed, 11 May 2016 14:11:09 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3215 When you're sick but need to be productive anyway, what do you do? This episode features some suggestions based on recent experience. Laura McClellan 89 89 Productivity When You're Sick full 33:23 https://theproductivewoman.com/priorities-deedra-determan-tpw088/ Wed, 04 May 2016 14:09:00 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3207 A chat with marketing pro, wife, and mom Deedra Determan about keeping priorities front and center. Laura McClellan 88 88 Focusing on Priorities, with Deedra Determan full 36:37 https://theproductivewoman.com/13-questions-tpw087/ Wed, 27 Apr 2016 14:15:04 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3191 When life is crazy busy it's easy to lose focus. Taking time to ask yourself some key questions can help keep life on track. Laura McClellan 87 87 13 Questions to Improve Productivity full 32:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/reasons-to-change-tpw086/ Wed, 20 Apr 2016 14:15:26 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3173 When we feel like we're not being as productive as we need to be, it’s tempting to think switching tools and or changing our system will make all the difference. But will a change in our productivity tools or systems always improve our productivity? Laura McClellan 86 86 5 Reasons to Change your Productivity System (& 4 Reasons Not To) full 38:29 https://theproductivewoman.com/time-saving-maia-olson-tpw085/ Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:22:14 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3151 Writer and marketing professional Maia Olson of Smile Software shares time-saving tips and the productivity tools that help her balance personal and professional commitments. Laura McClellan 85 85 Time-saving Tips & Tools, with Maia Olson full 32:47 https://theproductivewoman.com/funk-tpw084/ Wed, 06 Apr 2016 14:08:33 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3133 Our emotions can affect our productivity, for good or bad. When you're in a "funk," what can you do to address it and get back to getting things done? Laura McClellan 84 84 Getting Out of a Funk full 47:01 https://theproductivewoman.com/decluttering-an-international-conversation-tpw083/ Wed, 30 Mar 2016 14:08:31 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3113 Clutter, it seems, is a universal problem in 21st-century society. How can decluttering create space in our lives and minds for better things? Join me for a conversation with Julie Sheranosher of Israel and Priscille Livenais of France about decluttering. Also--a free printable to guide you through your own decluttering process! Laura McClellan 83 83 The Art of Decluttering: An International Conversation full 1:01:02 https://theproductivewoman.com/healthy-habits-bridgit-danner-tpw082/ Wed, 23 Mar 2016 14:14:56 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3099 Women's wellness expert Bridgit Danner shares her tips for developing the habits that will keep us strong, healthy, and productive. (And don't miss the link for information about her upcoming free online women's wellness summit!) Laura McClellan 82 82 Developing Healthy Habits, with Bridgit Danner full 44:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/5-principles-for-a-productive-life-tpw081/ Wed, 16 Mar 2016 14:10:39 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3062 If I had only 30 minutes to share the most important productivity tips I know, these 5 principles are what I would share--the principles and strategies that help me become and stay productive, and some of the tools I use for each. Laura McClellan 81 81 5 Guiding Principles for a Productive Life full 39:53 https://theproductivewoman.com/adhd-with-emily-prokop-tpw080/ Wed, 09 Mar 2016 15:07:15 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3031 I think you'll enjoy my conversation with wife, mom, editor, and podcaster Emily Prokop, who shares how attention deficit (ADHD) affects her as an adult, and the tools and techniques she uses to stay on task and accomplish the things that matter to her. Laura McClellan 80 80 ADHD & Productivity, with Emily Prokop full 40:05 https://theproductivewoman.com/paying-attention-tpw079/ Wed, 02 Mar 2016 15:40:22 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=3000 One key to accomplishing the things that matter most to us is the ability to give our focused attention to our most important tasks. Sometimes that's easier said than done. Laura McClellan 79 79 Staying Focused & Paying Attention full 51:03 https://theproductivewoman.com/going-back-to-work-with-justyna-denham-tpw078/ Wed, 24 Feb 2016 15:34:16 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2986 Returning to a full-time job after maternity leave isn’t like going back to work after a vacation. Being both a new mom and a busy professional takes a lot of planning and, ideally, support both at home and at work. Laura McClellan 78 78 Motherhood and Work, with Justyna Denham full 44:03 https://theproductivewoman.com/survival-mode-tpw077/ Wed, 17 Feb 2016 15:25:46 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2948 We all have those times in our life when we feel like we just can’t get ahead. Even when it's the result of a legitimate life crisis, it’s still easy to beat ourselves up for not accomplishing all we want to do. Sometimes, circumstances are such that we simply need to go into "survival mode" — doing the bare minimum it takes to get through the days with some semblance of peace until this season in our lives passes. Laura McClellan 77 77 Survival Mode full 35:16 https://theproductivewoman.com/creative-living-with-jennifer-lee-tpw076/ Wed, 10 Feb 2016 15:13:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2845 Creative entrepreneur, author, and business coach Jennifer Lee shares her approach to managing a multi-faceted life, maintaining both productivity and joy. Laura McClellan 76 76 Creative Living, with Jennifer Lee full 35:07 https://theproductivewoman.com/dealing-with-stress-tpw075/ Wed, 03 Feb 2016 15:04:02 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2898 Stress seems to be an unavoidable part of 21st-century life, and it has consequences--negative effects on our body, mind, emotions, and relationships. In this episode we look at some steps we can take to cope with, and even minimize, stress. Laura McClellan 75 75 Coping with Stress full 37:32 https://theproductivewoman.com/just-start-tpw074/ Wed, 27 Jan 2016 15:08:22 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2872 Often the hardest part of any task is just getting started. There are things we can do, though, to make it easier to get past that hurdle and start gaining momentum toward accomplishing the things that matter most. Laura McClellan 74 74 Just Start full 29:30 https://theproductivewoman.com/stress-free-meals-with-allison-schaaf-tpw073/ Wed, 20 Jan 2016 15:14:29 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2815 Planning and preparing healthy meals can be a challenge for busy women. Chef and registered dietician Allison Schaaf offers some great thoughts on managing a busy life and getting nutritious meals on the table--and she's offering a special deal for listeners for a service that can help. Laura McClellan 73 73 Stress-Free Meals, with Chef Allison Schaaf full 38:11 https://theproductivewoman.com/where-to-learn-it-tpw072/ Wed, 13 Jan 2016 15:34:25 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2841 Lack of confidence in our skills and knowledge can discourage us from pursuing our goals. Where can we learn what we need to know to move forward confidently toward achieving our dreams? Laura McClellan 72 72 Learn to Make a Life that Matters full 49:23 https://theproductivewoman.com/whose-life-are-you-living-tpw071/ Wed, 06 Jan 2016 15:46:59 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2769 Are you happy with the life you're living? Is it the life you've intentionally chosen and built for yourself, or are you following a path you just fell into--or one chosen for you by other influences? What keeps us from living our own lives? As we kick off the new year, maybe it's a good time to think about the big picture. Laura McClellan 71 71 Whose Life Are You Living? full 47:29 https://theproductivewoman.com/lay-a-foundation-tpw070/ Wed, 16 Dec 2015 17:54:14 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2749 Taking time in the last few weeks of the year to assess (and celebrate!) the present year and set a direction for the coming year can help you get 2016 off to the best possible start. Let's talk about my process for a year-end review that lays the foundation for the coming year. Laura McClellan 70 70 Laying a Foundation for a Great New Year full 37:28 https://theproductivewoman.com/managing-time-energy-with-julie-sheranosher-tpw069/ Wed, 09 Dec 2015 21:14:28 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2713 You may remember Julie Sheranosher as one of the co-hosts on a previous episode of The Productive Woman, the international conversation about "Productivity Your Way." This time, Julie and I talk one-on-one about her strategies for managing time and energy to create a productive life. Laura McClellan 69 69 Managing Time & Energy, with Julie Sheranosher full 44:35 https://theproductivewoman.com/the-lies-we-tell-ourselves-tpw068/ Wed, 02 Dec 2015 21:02:28 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2718 It's not unusual to face obstacles in the pursuit of our dreams or goals. But how many of those obstacles do we create ourselves? In this episode, I examine some of the lies we tell ourselves and offer some suggestions for counteracting the lies to help you accomplish your goals, no matter how big or difficult they may be. Laura McClellan 68 68 The Lies We Tell Ourselves full 44:02 https://theproductivewoman.com/professional-personal-priorities-with-demetra-liggins-tpw067/ Wed, 18 Nov 2015 22:03:01 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2697 When you're seeking success in a demanding profession, can you still make family and personal time a priority? Attorney Demetra Liggins says yes, but it doesn't come easily. She shared some tips and tools that help her manage it all. Laura McClellan 67 67 Professional & Personal Priorities, with Demetra Liggins full 42:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-your-way-an-international-conversation-tpw066/ Wed, 11 Nov 2015 22:05:35 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2679 Productivity is about making a life that matters to us. Recently I was part of a panel comprised of women from three countries, all of us podcasters who focus on productivity. Priscille Livenais of France, Julie Sheranosher of Israel, and I had a great conversation about our different approaches to creating the life you want for yourself, whatever stage of life you might be in. Laura McClellan 66 66 Productivity Your Way: an International Conversation full 56:24 https://theproductivewoman.com/how-to-choose-the-best-task-manager-tpw065/ Wed, 04 Nov 2015 23:20:53 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2663 With so many options available, how do you know which task management tool is the best for you? Let's discuss some of the factors you should consider. The best tool is the one you'll actually use. Laura McClellan 65 65 How to Choose the Best Task Manager full 32:54 https://theproductivewoman.com/defeat-distraction-through-clarity-discernment-with-ling-wong-tpw064/ Wed, 28 Oct 2015 21:03:52 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2634 Business consultant and marketing coach Ling Wong manages her own life (which includes a husband and two young children as well as a thriving business!) and encourages her multi-passionate, multi-talented clients to avoid distraction and stay on track through clarity and discernment. Laura McClellan 64 64 Defeat Distraction Through Clarity & Discernment, with Ling Wong full 39:48 https://theproductivewoman.com/impostor-syndrome-tpw063/ Wed, 21 Oct 2015 20:15:51 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2604 You might be surprised to learn that the most successful, accomplished women you know struggle with feeling like a fraud. It's known as Impostor Syndrome, and we're going to look at where it comes from, how it affects our productivity, and what we can do to overcome it. Laura McClellan 63 63 Impostor Syndrome full 41:28 https://theproductivewoman.com/productivity-at-work-tpw062/ Wed, 14 Oct 2015 23:24:23 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2595 We spent a lot of our time at work. Let's look at some of the barriers to productivity at work, and some suggestions on how to make our time at work as efficient and effective as possible. Laura McClellan 62 62 Productivity at Work full 51:37 https://theproductivewoman.com/keeping-things-simple-with-katie-floyd-tpw061/ Wed, 07 Oct 2015 21:24:38 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2583 Katie Floyd is a self-described attorney-by-day, geek-by-night. On top of a full-time law practice and pursuing a master’s degree in Law & Taxation, she is also the co-host of Mac Power Users, a weekly podcast focusing on getting the most from Apple technology. Let's talk about how she gets it all done. Laura McClellan 61 61 Keeping Things Simple, with Katie Floyd full 43:00 https://theproductivewoman.com/planning-a-project-tpw060/ Wed, 30 Sep 2015 21:31:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2559 Planning a project can be a daunting idea, especially when there are multiple components to keep track of. An organized approach can keep you focused and prevent a project from becoming overwhelming. Let's talk about turning a project into a series of manageable tasks, from beginning to end. Laura McClellan 60 60 Planning a Project full 36:01 https://theproductivewoman.com/what-i-know-about-raising-kids-tpw059/ Thu, 24 Sep 2015 01:19:52 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2536 For those of us who have children at home, they have a major impact on the way we live our lives, including how we manage our time. In episode 59 of The Productive Woman, we begin a conversation about how we can be productive women and good moms. Laura McClellan 59 59 What I Know About Raising Kids full 36:38 https://theproductivewoman.com/grace-for-the-busy-working-mom-with-leann-guzman-tpw058/ Thu, 17 Sep 2015 01:16:03 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2496 Are you a working mom, wearing many different hats and trying to do it all well? Lawyer and mom Leann Guzman understands--she's right there in the trenches with you. Hear our conversation about how she manages a professional career, personal goals, and a family she loves--and her very practical tips for how you can get it done as well. Laura McClellan 58 58 Grace for the Busy Working Mom, with Leann Guzman full 45:20 https://theproductivewoman.com/when-the-day-is-unproductive-tpw057/ Thu, 10 Sep 2015 03:24:25 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2505 We get a lot of satisfaction from those days when we get a lot done & make progress toward our goals, but how do we respond to an unproductive day? Laura McClellan 57 57 When the Day is Unproductive full 32:10 https://theproductivewoman.com/knowing-when-to-quit-tpw056/ Thu, 03 Sep 2015 02:55:53 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2484 We know that overwork is hazardous to our health and to our productivity, yet 21st century women (and men) often let work fill our days, nights, and weekends. How much is too much, and how do we know when (and how) to quit? Laura McClellan 56 56 Knowing When to Quit full 28:35 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-space-to-think-tpw055/ Thu, 27 Aug 2015 02:18:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2468 Are your days so full of activity and noise that you can't find time to think about your goals, much less take action on them? Let's talk about some things we can do to create time and space for creative thinking. Laura McClellan 55 55 Making Space to Think full 34:20 https://theproductivewoman.com/managing-a-busy-life-with-author-jill-kemerer-tpw054/ Thu, 20 Aug 2015 00:20:56 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2434 Like a lot of us, novelist Jill Kemerer sometimes tries to take on too much. Listen in on my conversation with Jill about how she manages that urge while she juggles a full-time writing career and her family's busy schedule. Laura McClellan 54 54 Managing a Busy Life, with Author Jill Kemerer full 26:38 https://theproductivewoman.com/the-value-of-the-authentic-you-tpw053/ Thu, 13 Aug 2015 01:23:13 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2418 Sometimes the scariest thing in the world is letting others see the "real" us. But when we hide behind the mask of who we think we're supposed to be, we miss out on joy and deprive the world of the gifts only we can give. In Episode 53 of The Productive Woman podcast, we look at authenticity and how it affects our ability to accomplish what we care about most. Laura McClellan 53 53 The Value of the Authentic YOU! full 28:31 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-things-done-an-overview-tpw052/ Thu, 06 Aug 2015 01:56:51 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2401 Getting Things Done, by David Allen, offers a framework for managing life in a way that lets us be both productive and peaceful. Let's look at how it works. Laura McClellan 52 52 Getting Things Done (an Overview) full 35:07 https://theproductivewoman.com/business-babies-a-chat-with-izabela-russell-tpw051/ Thu, 30 Jul 2015 00:49:00 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2374 Trying to balance business and small children? Wife, mom, and media business owner Izabela Russell and I had a great conversation about the challenges of operating a thriving business (or two!) while raising small children. Laura McClellan 51 51 Business & Babies: A Chat with Izabela Russell full 31:01 https://theproductivewoman.com/milestones-next-steps-tpw050/ Thu, 23 Jul 2015 01:18:19 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2360 How has the first half of 2015 gone for you? On The Productive Woman's milestone 50th episode let's talk about reaching milestones and figuring out what to do next. Laura McClellan 50 50 Milestones & Next Steps full 31:48 https://theproductivewoman.com/making-a-difference-tpw049/ Thu, 09 Jul 2015 02:00:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2325 Do you want to make a difference in the world, or at least in the world closest to you? I do. Let's talk about how, and where--and how to overcome the things that might stop us. Laura McClellan 49 49 Making a Difference full 34:54 https://theproductivewoman.com/life-lessons-from-a-year-of-podcasting-tpw048/ Thu, 02 Jul 2015 01:22:18 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2305 As hard as it is to believe, a full year has gone by since the first episode of The Productive Woman hit iTunes. I thought I'd share a few lessons I've learned over this past year about productivity and about life. Laura McClellan 48 48 Life Lessons From a Year of Podcasting full 28:36 https://theproductivewoman.com/productive-travel-self-care-more-with-priscille-livenais-tpw047/ Thu, 25 Jun 2015 01:40:46 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2278 The Productive Woman goes international! Priscille Livenais--a French businesswoman and productivity blogger--and I chat about the challenges of business travel, the value and limits of self-sacrifice, and so much more Laura McClellan 47 47 Productive Travel, Self-Care, & more, with Priscille Livenais full 44:49 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-ways-to-improve-your-mood-tpw046/ Thu, 18 Jun 2015 00:31:27 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2266 No matter how much we try to stay positive and productive, sometimes our emotions can interfere with our ability to get things done. If a bad mood is hampering your productivity, there are things you can do to improve it. Laura McClellan 46 46 10 Ways to Improve Your Mood full 23:20 https://theproductivewoman.com/body-image-productivity-with-heather-creekmore-tpw045/ Thu, 11 Jun 2015 01:05:29 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2251 How we see our physical selves can have a huge impact--positive or negative--on our confidence, and therefore our productivity. Listen as I discuss body image issues with wife, mom, author, blogger, and speaker Heather Creekmore. Laura McClellan 45 45 Body Image & Productivity with Heather Creekmore full 37:49 https://theproductivewoman.com/surviving-and-embracing-change-tpw044/ Thu, 04 Jun 2015 01:39:43 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2238 Change is inevitable, but it's also stressful and can wreak havoc on our productivity. So how can we manage our lives so that we can not only survive it, but come through it better than we went into it? Laura McClellan 44 44 Surviving (and Embracing) Change full 30:25 https://theproductivewoman.com/favorite-productivity-books-podcasts-blogs-tpw043/ Thu, 21 May 2015 01:37:07 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2220 Productivity is a tool, not a goal. We want to manage our time and organize our lives better in order to have the time to make a life that matters. Productivity is not a one-time-do-it-and-done thing, but a process of growth and improvement over time. In this episode I'll share some of my favorite resources for learning how to be more productive. Laura McClellan 43 43 Favorite Productivity Books, Podcasts, & Blogs full 30:34 https://theproductivewoman.com/simplicity-intentional-living-with-vanessa-hayes-tpw042/ Thu, 14 May 2015 00:26:31 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2201 How do you get off the 21st-century hamster wheel and make the meaningful life you've dreamed of? Vanessa Hayes is a podcast host, public speaker, and professional organizer, but she's also a busy woman just like the rest of us. In this episode she shares her tips for maintaining margin, living intentionally, and simplicity. Laura McClellan 42 42 Simplicity & Intentional Living, with Vanessa Hayes full 41:07 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-things-productive-women-dont-do-tpw041/ Thu, 07 May 2015 01:24:31 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2191 We've talked in the past about developing the habits that help us be more productive, but what are some things productive women don't do? Laura McClellan 41 41 10 Things Productive Women Don't Do full 28:13 https://theproductivewoman.com/motivation-tpw040/ Thu, 30 Apr 2015 02:17:35 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2174 What drives us to do -- or try? How do you keep yourself moving on a task or project that's hard? Our motivation matters. So what is it, where does it come from, how do we lose it, and how can we get it back? Laura McClellan 40 40 Motivation full 32:16 https://theproductivewoman.com/guarding-your-time-monika-kristofferson-tpw039/ Thu, 23 Apr 2015 00:32:04 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2157 Monika Kristofferson is a professional organizer, but she's also just a busy woman like the rest of us. In this episode she shares her tips for managing a busy life as a single mom with two teenaged daughters. Laura McClellan 39 39 Guarding Your Time - Monika Kristofferson full 30:36 https://theproductivewoman.com/managing-email-tpw038/ Thu, 16 Apr 2015 01:45:31 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2143 Email is a great invention and can be a useful tool, but it can also be a distraction and a time suck. This week we'll look at some tips for managing email so it enhances, rather than inhibits, our productivity. Laura McClellan 38 38 Managing Email full 37:26 https://theproductivewoman.com/a-quick-dirty-look-at-clutter-tpw037/ Thu, 09 Apr 2015 02:02:03 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2128 We've talked about the reasons and process for decluttering in previous episodes, but if clutter's getting out of control and you don't have time for an big clean-up project, maybe just a few quick and dirty tips will help. Laura McClellan 37 37 A Quick & Dirty Look at Clutter full 35:39 https://theproductivewoman.com/how-to-stay-productive-during-lifes-storms-tpw036/ Thu, 02 Apr 2015 01:58:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2115 It's easy--or maybe just easier--to be productive when things are firing on all cylinders and all's right in our world. But what happens when that's not the case, when in the midst of one of life's "storms" you get up in the morning and look at your schedule or your to-do list and think "I just can't even . . ."? Sometimes life throws us a curve. What do we do then? Laura McClellan 36 36 How to Stay Productive During Life's Storms full 28:57 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-productivity-rules-that-dont-work-tpw035/ Thu, 26 Mar 2015 01:40:40 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2101 A whole industry has been built up over the years around the concept of productivity. It's been the subject of decades of study and countless written words. Experts have identified the keys to productivity--rules that we're taught to follow in order to maximize productivity. But what if those rules don't work for you? Can you still be productive? Absolutely! Laura McClellan 35 35 10 Productivity Rules That Don't Work full 38:46 https://theproductivewoman.com/mentors-mentoring-for-women-tpw034/ Thu, 19 Mar 2015 02:43:07 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2085 Many women feel isolated in their efforts to advance in their careers, learn the skills they need to accomplish their goals, and become the person they want to be. In this episode we'll talk about one solution: finding a mentor. We'll look at what mentoring is, what the benefits are (on both sides), how to find mentors, and some guidelines for successful mentoring relationships. Laura McClellan 34 34 Mentors & Mentoring for Women full 37:58 https://theproductivewoman.com/no-comparison-cara-putman-tpw033/ Wed, 11 Mar 2015 11:50:08 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2055 Very few of us have lives focused on just one thing. Most of us instead juggle multiple roles, and try to do well at all of them. Author, attorney, and homeschooling mom Cara Putman understands the challenges of a multifaceted life. Dubbed by a friend as the "Do-It-All Mom," Cara shares openly about the not-always-pretty realities of managing a busy life and a busy household, and encourages us to live our lives by grace, rejecting the temptation to compare ourselves to other women. Laura McClellan 33 33 Nobody's Perfect - Connection Instead of Comparison, with Cara Putman full 36:58 https://theproductivewoman.com/choose-whats-essential-eliminate-the-rest-tpw032/ Thu, 05 Mar 2015 03:10:36 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=2024 In an increasingly noisy world, one key to true productivity and to building a life of lasting significance and satisfaction is learning to identify and pursue only what's essential, purposely eliminating the nonessential from our lives to make room for what really matters. We can learn how by studying Greg McKeown's wise and profound book, Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less. Laura McClellan 32 32 Choose What's Essential, Eliminate the Rest full 34:04 https://theproductivewoman.com/focus-on-building-the-life-you-want-tpw031/ Thu, 26 Feb 2015 03:20:12 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1998 If you're struggling to make progress on accomplishing the things you care about, if you start lots of projects but don't finish many, perhaps you're feeling the effects of a lack of focus. For some of us, the biggest challenge to productivity is the temptation to chase too many rabbits. One tool that can help us sort through the options and stay focused on what really matters is to choose a theme word (or words) for the year. Laura McClellan 31 31 Focus on Building the Life You Want full 29:02 https://theproductivewoman.com/task-management-options-tpw030/ Thu, 19 Feb 2015 03:12:55 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1976 One of the keys to being a productive woman is having a system in place to track and manage all the things we need to do in each area of responsibility. The options for task management systems and tools are as varied as we are. Nothing works for everyone, but there really is something that will work for each of us. Laura McClellan 30 30 Task Management Options full 40:48 https://theproductivewoman.com/choices-for-productive-women-with-allison-sheridan-tpw029/ Thu, 12 Feb 2015 01:52:34 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1956 Is the life you're living an accident, or the result of conscious, purposeful choices? This episode features a conversation with tech podcaster (and retired aerospace engineer) Allison Sheridan about how important it is for women to make conscious choices about their life, and to acknowledge that the choices are theirs to make. Laura McClellan 29 29 Choices for Productive Women, with Allison Sheridan full 34:09 https://theproductivewoman.com/failure-isnt-fatal/ Thu, 05 Feb 2015 02:53:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1931 Sometimes our best-laid plans don't pan out. Failure can either paralyze us or propel us into growth and new beginnings. This week we consider some thoughts about how to recover--and learn--from failure. Laura McClellan 28 28 Failure Isn't Fatal: Starting Well, Starting Over full 28:32 https://theproductivewoman.com/automating-productivity-with-schedules-routines-rituals-tpw027/ Thu, 29 Jan 2015 02:18:01 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1914 Much of the quality of our life, including our productivity, depends on the habits we employ. In this episode we look at how schedules, routines, and rituals can help us establish habits that let us be more productive, achieve our goals, and build the life we want. Laura McClellan 27 27 Automating Productivity with Schedules, Routines, & Rituals full 32:39 https://theproductivewoman.com/overcoming-resistance/ Thu, 22 Jan 2015 01:48:25 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1888 Why is it so hard to get ourselves to do the things we most want to do? Few things in life are more exasperating than the way we sometimes sabotage our own goals. In this episode we look at some of reasons we block our own success, and offer some suggestions to address those issues, get past that resistance, and accomplish the things that matter most. Laura McClellan 26 26 How to Get Yourself to Do the Things You Want to Do full 33:44 https://theproductivewoman.com/25-productivity-tips-from-and-for-busy-women-tpw025/ Thu, 15 Jan 2015 02:20:44 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1845 In celebration of reaching the milestone of episode 25, I'm sharing 25 great productivity tips--some from listeners, some from special guests, and a few of my own. Thank you so much to all those productive women who contributed their great tips and suggestions for this episode. Laura McClellan 25 25 25 Productivity Tips From and For Busy Women full 48:16 https://theproductivewoman.com/writer-karin-beery-talks-about-productivity-health-challenges-tpw024/ Thu, 08 Jan 2015 02:07:29 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1816 Writer Karin Beery joins me to talk about staying productive when facing health challenges and caring for family members. She offers great tips and suggestions. I especially liked her perspective on how to handle those days when everything gets away from you. Laura McClellan 24 24 Writer Karin Beery Talks About Productivity & Health Challenges full 33:33 https://theproductivewoman.com/5-important-productivity-principles-for-the-new-year-tpw023/ Thu, 18 Dec 2014 01:52:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1790 2014 is winding down, and 2015 is upon us. While we want to stay in the moment and enjoy the holiday celebrations, there's still a little time to give thought to the coming year and what we want to accomplish. In this episode we look at 5 important productivity principles to keep in mind as the new year begins, 6 simple productivity assignments for the last 2 weeks of the year, and a peek at what's ahead for The Productive Woman in 2015. (And don't forget to send in your favorite tips for the upcoming 25th episode celebration--info in the show notes--and maybe win an Amazon gift card!) Laura McClellan 23 23 5 Important Productivity Principles for the New Year full 25:07 https://theproductivewoman.com/12-productivity-boosting-holiday-gifts-tpw022/ Thu, 11 Dec 2014 01:29:46 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1769 Tis the season . . . for giving gifts. In case you're still shopping for those last few gifts, or in case you're looking for ideas to give those who want to gift you!, this episode offers some productivity-boosting options for all the folks on your list, including gifts at a variety of price levels. And best of all? Every one of them can be ordered online! Laura McClellan 22 22 12 Productivity-Boosting Holiday Gifts full 32:00 https://theproductivewoman.com/talking-productivity-with-jamie-clark-samples-tpw021/ Thu, 04 Dec 2014 02:01:47 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1752 Even new moms can get things done! This week business owner, horsewoman, and new mom Jamie Clark Samples joins me to talk about the challenges of running a small business while caring for a new baby. Jamie offers some great suggestions and encouragement. Laura McClellan 21 21 Talking Productivity with Jamie Clark Samples full 30:44 https://theproductivewoman.com/my-top-10-productivity-apps-for-iphone-tpw-020/ Thu, 20 Nov 2014 02:29:03 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1721 When I recently put the question out on social media, asking listeners what topics they'd like to hear about on upcoming episodes, several asked for suggestions on productivity apps for smart phones. It's a question I often get asked by friends and colleagues, since I'm known to try lots of apps. In this episode I share ten(ish) of my favorites. Laura McClellan 20 20 My Top 10 Productivity Apps for iPhone full 41:59 https://theproductivewoman.com/organizing-for-a-low-stress-holiday-meal-tpw019/ Thu, 13 Nov 2014 03:27:52 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1705 The holiday season is a time filled with family and friends and joy . . . and often, for those of use whose schedules are already busy, even more stress than usual. This week we're going to look at some steps we can take to minimize the stress, and maximize the joy, of the holiday season. Laura McClellan 19 19 Organizing for a Low-Stress Holiday Meal full 34:05 https://theproductivewoman.com/relaxing-without-guilt-tpw018/ Thu, 06 Nov 2014 03:56:20 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1693 21st century life is cram-packed with activity, stress, and tension, and a lot of us have a hard time letting it go long enough to relax, rest, and recharge. Learning to do so, though, will reap dividends in our physical, mental, and emotional health, our creativity, our relationships, and ultimately, in our productivity. Laura McClellan 18 18 Relaxing Without Guilt full 33:35 https://theproductivewoman.com/7-productivity-pitfalls-how-to-avoid-them-tpw017/ Thu, 30 Oct 2014 01:47:11 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1673 Productivity is a good thing, but there are potential pitfalls we should be aware of in our pursuit of productivity. In this episode we look at seven of those pitfalls, and consider how we can avoid them and stay on track toward making lives that matter. Laura McClellan 17 17 7 Productivity Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them full 31:30 https://theproductivewoman.com/conquering-clutter-step-by-step-tpw016/ Thu, 23 Oct 2014 02:04:22 +0000 https://theproductivewoman.com/?p=1642 In episode 14 we started a conversation about decluttering. This week we look at it again, talking about a step-by-step process for decluttering and organizing our homes (or workspace) one room at a time. Laura McClellan 16 16 Conquering Clutter, Step by Step full 31:17 https://theproductivewoman.com/dealing-with-discouragement-tpw015/ Thu, 16 Oct 2014 02:42:08 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1580 We'll pick up in a future episode on our mini-series on decluttering, but this week I thought I'd share a little of my heart on something I've been dealing with lately--discouragement. It can interfere with our productivity and our quality of life in general, but there are some things we can do to disable its power over us. Laura McClellan 15 15 Dealing With Discouragement full 29:12 https://theproductivewoman.com/conquering-clutter-tpw014/ Thu, 09 Oct 2014 04:25:37 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1569 How do you feel about the stuff you own? Is every possession in your life something meaningful to you, or is your space overwhelmed with too much stuff? If you're like most people, it's likely the latter. In this episode we begin looking at the clutter of possessions in our lives, what it does to us, and what we can do about it. Laura McClellan 14 14 Conquering Clutter full 36:04 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-ready-to-finish-well-tpw013/ Thu, 02 Oct 2014 02:39:09 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1563 As we enter the last quarter of the year, it seems like a good time to pause, consider what we've accomplished so far this year, re-evaluate what we want to do in the time that's left, and set ourselves up for success in the remaining months of this year. Laura McClellan 13 13 Getting Ready to Finish Well full 32:37 https://theproductivewoman.com/10-indispensable-productivity-tools-tpw012/ Thu, 25 Sep 2014 02:49:54 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1551 Every woman is unique, and her life and schedule and style are unique. So there's no such thing as one right way to manage your life or time, and there are no tools that work for everyone. Every woman develops the system that works for her, and we can learn from each other by sharing what works (and what doesn't). Laura McClellan 12 12 10 Indispensable Productivity Tools full 39:59 https://theproductivewoman.com/15-minutes-to-sanity-9-steps-to-handling-overwhelm-tpw011/ Thu, 18 Sep 2014 01:27:39 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1543 Sometimes, no matter how organized we are or how carefully we plan, life just takes over and throws way too much at us. When there's too much to do and not enough time to get it done, we can feel panicky, stressed, and overwhelmed. I've developed a simple 15-minute process that can help bring me back from the brink, calm me down, and get me through these crisis moments. Laura McClellan 11 11 15 Minutes to Sanity: 9 Steps to Handling Overwhelm full 25:50 https://theproductivewoman.com/tips-for-stress-free-travel-tpw010/ Thu, 11 Sep 2014 03:33:37 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1529 Travel can be stressful, but there are lots of things we can do to make it less so. I asked my connections on Facebook to share some of their favorite tips for productive and stress-free travel, and in this episode I share their tips, as well as some of my own. Laura McClellan 10 10 Tips for Stress-Free Travel full 38:35 https://theproductivewoman.com/getting-healthy-and-more-productive-tpw009/ Thu, 04 Sep 2014 02:28:17 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1516 Tons of studies show that healthier people are more productive, but modern life makes staying healthy and fit a challenge for all of us. How does health impact our productivity, what are the basics that contribute to good health, and how can we get healthier without spending all our time thinking about it? Laura McClellan 9 9 Getting Healthy and More Productive full 35:24 https://theproductivewoman.com/saying-no-gracefully-tpw008/ Thu, 28 Aug 2014 02:52:05 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1503 Do you find it difficult to say no? I do. The desire to be liked or the sincere desire to help makes it easy to say yes, and sometimes we end up regretting it. Laura McClellan 8 8 Saying No Gracefully full 32:21 https://theproductivewoman.com/perfectionism-productivity-tpw007/ Thu, 21 Aug 2014 02:31:11 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1487 Having high standards is a good thing. Striving for excellence is a good thing. But taken to extremes, these can become perfectionism, which can paralyze us and prevent us from accomplishing the things that matter to us. The key is to find that balance that lets us enjoy the process and the results of our efforts. Laura McClellan 7 7 Perfectionism & Productivity full 30:20 https://theproductivewoman.com/overcoming-obstacles-to-achieving-our-goals-tpw006/ Thu, 14 Aug 2014 02:21:36 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1479 Even if we go through an intentional process of setting our goals, we might face obstacles in our efforts to actually achieve them. Being prepared for those obstacles helps us overcome them. In this episode we continue our discussion of goal-setting, looking at some of the obstacles that may interfere and some of the things we can do to overcome those obstacles. Laura McClellan 6 6 Overcoming Obstacles to Achieving Our Goals full 41:46 https://theproductivewoman.com/a-step-by-step-process-for-setting-goals-tpw005/ Thu, 07 Aug 2014 02:30:44 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1468 Continuing our series on goal-setting, this week we talk about a step-by-step process for setting goals. Laura McClellan 5 5 A Step by Step Process for Setting Goals full 27:06 https://theproductivewoman.com/setting-goals-that-matter-tpw004/ Thu, 31 Jul 2014 01:35:51 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1455 Following up on our look at the big picture in episode 2, this week we begin a short series on goal-setting. This episode looks at what a goal is, and how it differs from a dream or an objective, and suggest some ways to set yourself up for success. Laura McClellan 4 4 Setting Goals That Matter full 29:36 https://theproductivewoman.com/my-top-10-tips-for-managing-your-day-tpw003/ Thu, 24 Jul 2014 12:35:41 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1367 Little things can make a big difference in managing the demands on our time. This episode is a quick flyover of the things that help me on a daily basis. Laura McClellan 3 3 My Top 10 Tips for Managing Your Day full 34:45 https://theproductivewoman.com/the-big-picture-priorities-guiding-principles-tpw002/ Thu, 17 Jul 2014 09:22:20 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1345 When people think about productivity, they often think about calendars and to-do lists and project management, and all of those things are a big part of what we will discuss in coming episodes. But there's a big difference between being busy and being productive. True productivity requires a purpose to guide the activity. In this episode we talk about a process for coming up with principles to guide our decisions in such a way that our activity is consistent with our true values. Laura McClellan 2 2 The Big Picture: Priorities & Guiding Principles full 24:18 https://theproductivewoman.com/starting-the-journey-tpw001/ Thu, 10 Jul 2014 04:13:19 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1332 Welcome to the first official episode of The Productive Woman. In this episode I share a little about who this podcast is for, why I created it, what I'll be covering, and what the format will be. I also offer a little information about myself, so you can decide whether you think I'm someone you want to spend half an hour or so with each week. Laura McClellan 1 1 Starting the Journey full 33:58 https://theproductivewoman.com/introduction-tpw000/ Wed, 02 Jul 2014 02:51:33 +0000 http://www.laura-mcclellan.com/?p=1316 It's been six months in the making, but with much fear and trepidation, I share here my first, very short, very rough "pre-episode" of The Productive Woman, a podcast created to help busy women find tools and encouragement for managing their lives, their time, and their stuff. Laura McClellan 0 0 Introduction full 4:12