Time and Attention

Hosts reopen the show with a short teaser about upcoming changes. They explain why an episode was skipped and announce one co-host is stepping back from a larger role. Plans to add video alongside audio and hint at a new male co-host are discussed. They tease a finale revisiting highlights and explain how to stay updated via newsletters.

Ashley Whillans, associate professor and author of Time Smart who studies time, money, and happiness. She explains why people chase money over time. She offers simple habits to treat time like a resource. She connects time-first choices to better well-being, productivity, and relationships. She introduces the idea of converting time choices into “happiness dollars.”

They explore AI tools that automate tedious knowledge-work tasks like file handling and web navigation. Conversation shifts to how work moves from doing to directing intelligent systems. They describe a morning briefing system that runs goals at daily and strategic levels. The risk of wasted leverage and why every minute gains value when you guide systems are highlighted.

Explore the fascinating world of goal-setting, from outcome goals to process goals. The hosts dissect the limitations of traditional SMART goals and emphasize the importance of personal values in shaping our ambitions. Discover the difference between learning and performance goals and how adopting a growth mindset can transform frustration into productive learning. They offer practical tips for creating actionable goals and the benefits of viewing process goals as experiments. Tune in for valuable insights on setting goals that truly resonate!

Dive into the science of goal attainment with insights from Chris’s new book, Intentional. Discover the importance of aligning goals with core values and how that can transform your motivation. Learn about the intention stack and why keeping an accomplishments list is crucial to combat goal amnesia. Chris also breaks down goal editing and the concept of viewing goals as predictions, challenging traditional methods like SMART goals. Plus, explore practical tactics to overcome procrastination and enhance time awareness for better decision-making.

The hosts dive into the idea that productivity takes a backseat during the holidays, highlighting a dip in interest and sales. They tease Chris's upcoming book, 'Intentional', discussing preorder perks and goal completion. The conversation shifts to reflection and gratitude, emphasizing mindful appreciation over holiday stress. They explore self-reflective capacity learned from a monk and share personal moments of gratitude. Finally, plans for 2026 and a New Year meditation retreat are also discussed, wrapping up with holiday wishes.

Dive into the intriguing concept of the Intention Stack, a framework blending monk teachings with scientific research. Discover how intentions stem from biology and experiences of pleasure or pain. Chris Bailey and Ardyn Nordstrom discuss aligning your goals with personal values and the importance of planning to enhance task execution. Uncover methods for reframing tasks to make them more meaningful. This conversation offers fresh insights on productivity and intentional living, encouraging a deeper connection to your daily actions.

Kyle Austin Young, a strategist and author, discusses his book on how success is mathematically approached. He explains the importance of understanding the odds behind goals to avoid likely failures. Using a marathon analogy, he emphasizes the multiplying effect of prerequisites on success probabilities. Young introduces 'probability hacking' as a method to reallocate odds by examining potential negative outcomes. He also shares practical tips for creating success diagrams and designing daily actions to achieve goals more effectively.

Delve into the intriguing world of early risers as Chris shares his journey of waking up at 5:30 AM for a month. Discover the romantic appeal of mornings and the practical challenges that come with it. He also recounts a month-long experiment of only drinking water, revealing surprising energy boosts and financial benefits. The conversation touches on the emotional ties to beverages and even speculates on future experiments involving AI. Tune in for insights on productivity, habit formation, and the transformative power of morning routines!

Dive into a fascinating exploration of productivity experiments, highlighting a daring attempt at working 90-hour weeks for a month. Discover the surprising results where 20-hour weeks proved more effective, thanks to intentionality and the deadline effect. Experience the benefits of a three-hour siesta, which not only recharged energy but also enhanced focus. Reflect on the complexities of managing time versus energy, and consider the implications of relaxation guilt on our lives. These insights challenge conventional wisdom about work and rest!