Stand Out
Whether you are just launching a career in professional organizing and productivity or you’re a seasoned veteran — The Stand Out Podcast Series from the National Association of Organizing & Productivity Professionals (NAPO) will teach you how to make the most of the Organizing and Productivity Industry. Host Clare Kumar interviews business experts and successful professionals in the productivity and organizing world.
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Why Paper Still Matters
08/10/2022
Why Paper Still Matters
In today’s digital day and age, we have forgotten about the benefits of using paper. We turn to our shiny little screens to take photos, notes, and store records. Joining us today on the Stand Out podcast is long-time NAPO member, Julie Bestry. Julie is a professional organizer who dazzles people with her wonderful blogs. Today, we discuss what she is noticing about the shift in our relationship to paper over the last few years, the Cornell note-taking method, haptics, and the beauty of cursive. We also discuss Julie’s hybrid system when it comes to note-taking, planning, and recording, and look at the importance of finding a system that works for you. Finally, Julie tells us why she is known as the ‘paper doll.’ To hear all this and more, tune in now! Key Points From This Episode: An introduction to today’s guest, Julie Bestry. What Julie is noticing about how our relationship to paper has shifted over the past few years. Discussing the Cornell note-taking method. Julie explains what haptic is. How writing was a thing of beauty in the past. The beauty of being able to read and write cursive. The importance of finding a system that works for you; digital, paper, or hybrid. Why Julie is called paper doll. Julie’s passion for words and stationary. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Julie Bestry — Julie Bestry on LinkedIn — Julie Bestry on Twitter — Julie’s Blog — Evernote — Waze — TripTicks on Amazon — Mint — Target — The Cornell note-taking method — Remarkable — TikTok — American Scripture — NAPO — NAPO Stand Out on YouTube — Itoya — WH Smith — Clare Kumar — Clare Kumar on LinkedIn — Clare Kumar on Instagram —
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Prolific Productivity Pioneer Reveals Secrets of Success
07/27/2022
Prolific Productivity Pioneer Reveals Secrets of Success
This is an extra special episode of Stand Out, and one that none of our listeners will want to miss! Today we have the past Director of NAPO and organizing and productivity pioneer, Harold Taylor on the show, to share some of the wealth of wisdom he has accumulated after 45 years in the business! Harold is now in his 80s, but has not let this slow him down, and continues to work, publishing books and leading an extremely rich and exciting life. In our conversation, we get to cover the basics with Harold, talking about personal productivity and building a system that suits our unique needs, before we get into some of the more specialized areas in which our guest has worked. We talk about the many books he has written and published, the use of humor in his presentations, the evolution of distractions, and much more. As you will see, Harold has an amazing ability to synthesize and communicate ideas, so to catch it all from this generous and important member of our community, tune in! Key Points From This Episode: [00:03:32] The ever-present experiences Harold Taylor has dealt with throughout his career. [00:06:26] How Harold has depicted disorganization in his presentations. [00:08:48] Blocking out the necessary interruptions; taking responsibility for your own time! [00:11:24] What actually happens when we allow ourselves to get distracted. [00:13:19] The inclusion of humor in Harold's presentations, and the idea of high-risk speaking! [00:15:02] The importance of focusing on a specific niche and area of your subject. [00:19:29] Developing a system that suits your unique needs and habits. [00:22:40] The range of work that Harold still does; seminars, writing, and more. [00:24:45] What keeps Harold interested and motivated at this stage of his life and career! [00:27:06] The different writing projects that led up to Harold publishing books. [00:34:35] Harold's approach to new technologies and leveraging this power. [00:39:51] The recent book that Harold wrote on the subject of how to develop character. [00:40:45] Comments on the malleability of personality; how environment and attitude impact us. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: NAPO — Taylor in Time — Making Time Work for You — Harold Taylor on LinkedIn — Harold Taylor on Twitter — Harold Taylor on Facebook — Youtube — Bookboon — Golden — Video of Harold Shep Hyken — Carol Burnett — Mary Tyler Moore — The Administrator's Guide to Personal Productivity — Exactly What to Say — Humber College — NAPO on YouTbe — Clare Kumar —
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Community-Inspired Collaboration
07/13/2022
Community-Inspired Collaboration
Diversity, inclusion, and representation are essential in any field. Unfortunately, most of our institutions still have a long way to go in addressing this. It’s unsurprising that in response to this type of exclusion, whether intentional or not, people of color and other minorities have often formed support groups and alternative organizations where they can find much-needed solidarity and understanding. Today on the show we talk with Carolyn Rogers, an electrical and software engineer and organizer, and one of the six founders of Ebony & Orderly as well as the National Association of Black Professional Organizers (NABPO). We discuss the many positive elements of NAPO, its unfortunate lack of diversity, and some of the steps they’re taking to rectify this. Carolyn reflects on how gravitating towards people who look like us is part of human nature and the important role that human connection has played in her career as an organizer. She describes how NABPO was formed out of a desire to serve a broader community, why NABPO is all about inclusivity, and how anyone can get involved. We also take a closer look at how intimate and personal being an organizer can be and why trust between a client and organizer is essential. To learn more about NABPO, building community, diversity, inclusion, and much more, make sure you tune in today! Key Points From This Episode: Introducing the National Association of Black Professional Organizers (NABPO) and today’s guest Carolyn Rogers [00:00:33]. The group Ebony & Orderly and how it inspired the formation of NABPO [00:03:06]. How NABPO first started gaining clients and hosting conferences. [00:05:30] The importance of helping people see the benefits of getting organized. [00:06:14]. The figures that have brought awareness to organizing as a career and a service. [00:07:18]. How the COVID-19 pandemic has created a demand for organizational services. [00:09:14]. The current state of Ebony & Orderly and how its members are supporting each other's individual journeys. [00:10:18]. How human connections have helped Carolyn move forward in organizing. [00:13:56]. How the formation of NABPO came about. [00:16:26]. Some of the diversity challenges of NAPO. [00:16:52]. The sense of belonging that comes from being in environments that contain diversity when you’re a person of color. [00:19:02]. How minorities support each other in different industries, like engineering. [00:20:59]. The shifts and pushback we’ve noticed from people when it comes to inclusivity. [00:22:54] Some of the shifts that have taken place in advertising and representing diversity. [00:25:50] The benefits that have come out of NABPO and Ebony & Orderly for the communities that they serve. [00:27:10] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Ebony & Orderly — National Association of Black Professional Organizers (NABPO) — NAPO —
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How to Stop Overthinking and Trust Yourself
06/22/2022
How to Stop Overthinking and Trust Yourself
High sensitivity is a trait that affects one in five people in the general population, but today’s expert guest agrees that there seems to be a much higher prevalence of this in the organizing and productivity community as well as the coaching community. Joining us today is Melody Wilding, a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), thought leader, coach, professor of human behavior, and the author of Trust Yourself: Stop Overthinking and Channel Your Emotions for Success at Work. She’s been listed as Business Insider’s most innovative coach and has written for publications such as Harvard Business Review, Forbes, Fast Company, the Wall Street Journal, O Magazine, and many other high-profile publications. Tuning in you’ll hear about the traits that define highly sensitive people, the percentage of people who fall into this category, and how these personality traits can create challenges for us while also being our superpower. Melody breaks down some of the common challenges we face, such as “the honor roll hangover,” and explains how we can harness our emotions to have them work for us and not against us, along with some practical exercises to try. For some fascinating insight into the minds of highly sensitive people that may help you achieve success at work, tune in today! Key Points From This Episode: Claire’s suspicion that there are more highly sensitive people in the organizing, productivity, and coaching communities. [00:00:42] An introduction to today’s guest, Melody Wilding, and her impressive career. [00:01:39] Why Melody agrees that high sensitivity is more prevalent in organizing and coaching professions. [00:03:14] Insight into the percentage of people who are highly sensitive. [00:04:13] The SEED model Claire uses to differentiate highly sensitive people from others. [00:06:07] The STRIVE model Melody uses to describe the personality traits common among high-achieving highly sensitive people. [00:07:56] What Melody means by the 'honor roll hangover' and the trifecta of common qualities found in sensitive strivers. [00:11:47] How we can harness emotions and have them work for us, not against us. [00:13:02] How to protect yourself from the emotional exhaustion that may come with challenging clients and the Four Feelings Test. [00:14:32] How to show up in your business in a way that you feel good about. [00:18:53] Why highly sensitive people tend to disconnect themselves from their intuition. [00:20:55] Benefit from your strong inner drive while overcoming the tendency to do too much. [00:23:23] The value of rest in today’s corporate climate, particularly for sensitive strivers. [00:26:31] Exercises to help you get back in touch with your ‘sensitive striver sixth sense’. [00:29:03] Melody’s final thoughts on sensitivity as a strength and superpower. [00:31:15] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Melody Wilding — Melody Wilding on Twitter — Trust Yourself — Fierce Self-Compassion — Stand Out — Stand Out on YouTube — NAPO —
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The Critical Role of Organizing in Caregiving - Amelia Pleasant Kennedy
06/08/2022
The Critical Role of Organizing in Caregiving - Amelia Pleasant Kennedy
Today we talk about the critical role of organizing in caregiving. Joining us for this discussion is Amelia Pleasant Kennedy, a NAPO member and an experienced professional organizer and life coach who runs a company called A Pleasant Solution. Amelia explains how she began her journey into the world of caregiving when her mother could no longer care for herself and how being a professional organizer uniquely prepared her for this role. She shares her story with us about how she first realized her mother needed additional care, how she broached the conversation with her brother, and how together they broached the conversation with their mom. Tuning in you’ll hear how Amelia overcame the emotional challenges of this journey by compartmentalizing, the importance of caring for yourself in a process like this, and some of the unexpected joys that Amelia got out of this experience. To hear Amelia’s advice and encouragement to anyone who may find themselves in a similar situation, or may be serving a client who is going through this process, as well as tips on how to marry compassion with the practical, tune in today! Key Points From This Episode: The story of how Amelia became a caregiver. [00:03:18] How Amelia’s organizing expertise prepared her for caregiving. [00:04:57] Amelia explains how she navigated family conversations about her mother’s need for more care. [00:06:38] Advice to anyone who has to approach a conversation about care, and the importance of marrying compassion with practicality. [00:08:53] How Amelia has overcome the emotional challenges by compartmentalizing. [00:11:24] How Amelia’s mother’s home reflected the state of her mental disorganization. [00:12:40] Clues that an elder parent may need extra care or assisted living. [00:14:11] Some of the unexpected joys that came out of this experience for Amelia. [00:17:31] Amelia’s advice to anyone in the organizing profession who may find themselves in a similar situation. [00:20:26]. Words of encouragement for anyone who may be on a similar journey. [00:23:21] The importance of caring for yourself while you care for others. [00:24:55] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Amelia Pleasant Kennedy — A Pleasant Solution — NAPO — NAPO Podcast —
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Good Enough is Perfect - KC Davis (EP.98)
05/25/2022
Good Enough is Perfect - KC Davis (EP.98)
We’re all familiar with the phrase, “Good enough is good enough,” but today’s guest is here to share some wisdom around why good enough isn’t just good enough, it’s perfect. KC Davis is a therapist, author (of How to Keep House While Drowning, which we highly recommend), and mother of two, who also recently became a TikTok sensation for her open and honest accounts of her home life during the pandemic and her approach to dealing with a messy household. Struggling with postpartum depression during nationwide lockdowns, KC came to the life-altering realization that not folding her kids’ clothes didn’t make her a bad mother and that it’s unrealistic to expect a lived-in home to look fit for the cover of a magazine. She has since come up with practical strategies to help people concurrently look after their mental health and their home environment, which she shares with us today. Sometimes we get too caught up in society’s expectations of us and we forget what’s really important; so if you’re needing some perspective, you’ve come to the right place! Key Points From This Episode: Introducing today’s guest, KC Davis. [00:01:51]. KC’s accidental journey to becoming internet-famous, and how it has changed her life and continues to change the lives of many others. [00:03:06]. The mindset shift required to make dealing with a messy house more manageable. [00:08:07]. How KC’s relationship with the phrase “do your best” has evolved over time. [00:10:11]. KC explains the concept of moral neutrality, and how it can be applied to so many areas of our lives. [00:15:15]. Why embracing imperfection is the key to living a full and happy life. [00:17:54]. A household task that KC struggled with when she had postpartum depression, and the ‘adaptive imperfection’ solution she came up with to manage it. [00:19:55]. The three layers of function that KC has developed as a way to help people manage their household tasks. [00:26:14]. An explanation of KC’s 9 square matrix for setting priorities. [00:28:27]. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Struggle Care — How to Keep House While Drowning by KC Davis — KC Davis on TikTok — NAPO — NAPO Podcast —
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Closet Design Magic - Naeemah Ford Goldson (EP.97)
05/11/2022
Closet Design Magic - Naeemah Ford Goldson (EP.97)
“When you think about it, our day starts and it ends in our closet.” These are the words of today’s guest Naeemah Ford Goldson, who joins us as we delve into the world of closets! Naeemah is a NAPO member, the proud owner of Restore Order Professional Organizing, and the host of her own podcast Organize Me! Radio. She's also a member of the ICD and the founder of NABPO which is the National Association of Black Professional Organizers, a non-profit that seeks to empower BIPOC Professional Organizers. Naeemah joins us to help us get a current take on what's hot in the land of closets! She explains why closets are so important, why they should be customized, and how our individual sizes and shapes affect the way we should design them. We discuss how putting things away affects the design of the closet, why it’s so important for the hamper to be convenient and functional, and how to design a closet for two people with different organizing styles. To discover valuable tips for organizing professionals who are looking for closet solutions for their clients, and what is currently trending in design finishes and colors, tune in today! Key Points From This Episode: Naeemah Ford Goldson’s thoughts on why closets should be customized. [00:02:52]. How our sizes and shapes affect the way we design closets. [00:04:42]. Other things to consider when customizing closet space. [00:05:53]. Why you should edit your closet content before you do inventory. [00:07:40]. How putting things away affects the design of the closet. [00:09:25]. The importance of the hamper being convenient and functional. [00:10:50]. Tips on how to design a closet for two people with different organizing styles.[00:11:50]. Naeemah’s favorite thing to use in a closet: a valet rod. [00:13:06]. Tips for organizing professionals looking for closet solutions for their clients [00:14:27]. Whether or not you should factor kickbacks into your fee. [00:15:14]. How Naeemah goes about designing a closet using graphing paper. [00:19:09]. Insight into what is currently trending in design finishes and colors. [00:22:19]. One of Naeemah’s favorite closet organizing products: the shelf divider. [00:24:49]. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Restore Order — Naeemah Ford Goldson on LinkedIn — Institute for Challenging Disorganization — National Association of Black Professional Organizers — Organize Me! Radio — Restore Order on Twitter — Restore Order on Facebook — Restore Order on Instagram — Restore Order with Naeemah on YouTube — NAPO — NAPO Podcast —
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Discover Your Organizing Style (EP.96)
04/06/2022
Discover Your Organizing Style (EP.96)
After years of struggling with clutter, today’s guest realized something that would change her life forever; she didn’t organize in the traditional way. Cassandra Aarssen discovered that there are, in fact, four different organizing styles. Once she knew her style, Cassandra (or Cass, as she is affectionately known) was finally able to design a system that worked for her and stay organized for good! She’s now on a mission to spread the Clutterbug Organizing Philosophy and help other families who struggle with disorganization and clutter. You may have seen her hosting Hot Mess House on HGTV, although she also offers free education and ideas through her YouTube videos, podcasts, and her amazing online Facebook support group. In today’s episode, she shares why she believes that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution for organization, and the four different organizing types that Cass calls Clutterbugs; Ladybug, Bee, Cricket, and Butterfly. We also discuss how differing organizing styles can co-exist under the same roof, and how you can encourage your children to develop their own relationships with things. Cass gives advice for listeners who are considering a less organized approach, and so much more! Tune in today to find out how Cass has been able to help millions of families transform their lives through organization and how you can do the same! Key Points From This Episode: Cass shares her personal struggle with clutter that drove her to start Clutterbugs [00:02:26]. Why a particular organizing system works for one person and not another [00:04:30]. Your guide to understanding different organizing styles [00:06:04]. Where you can take the Clutterbug Quiz and why you should answer honestly [00:09:38]. Why Cass believes that self-confidence is half the battle when it comes to clutter [00:10:37]. Breaking down the four Clutterbug styles: Butterfly, Bee, Ladybug, and Cricket [00:11:00]. What’s on the horizon for Cass, including product development for each style [00:14:16]. The trap that she sees professional organizers fall into with their clients [00:15:55]. How differing organizing styles can live together under the same roof [00:18:05]. How you can encourage your children to discover their relationship with things [00:26:17]. Insight into Hot Mess House and the principles that Cass brought to the show [00:27:20]. Her advice for listeners: it’s okay to take a less organized approach! [00:32:20] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Cassandra Aarssen on LinkedIn — Cassandra Aarssen on Twitter — Clutterbug — Clutterbug on Instagram — Clutterbug on Facebook — Clutterbug on YouTube — NAPO —
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Organizing Industry Trends in 2022
03/23/2022
Organizing Industry Trends in 2022
Over the last few decades, the organizing industry has progressed in almost indescribable ways and our guest today, Dorothy Breininger, has witnessed many of these changes, having built an amazing career along the way. Dorothy joins us on the show today to talk about this wonderful journey that she has been on, what got her started, and her thoughts on the current landscape of organizing. She has some truly inspiring messages for all of our listeners around working with your circumstance, staying generous, and how curiosity and volunteering can serve you and your business in positive and unexpected ways. In our chat, Dorothy reflects on her first connection with NAPO, and how she went about building her business before we talk about the organizing community and the explosion of the industry that we have seen more recently. We also get into the appearances that Dorothy has made across many popular TV shows and how she learned to bring her authentic self to her brand. This is a truly unmissable episode, so join us to get it all! Key Points From This Episode: [00:01:27] Looking back at Dorothy's history in the world of organizing up to this point. [00:06:15] Memories of connecting with NAPO and what the organizing profession looked like at the start of Dorothy's career. [00:08:34] Building her own business and the resources that helped Dorothy expand. [00:13:08] The need for community and how Dorothy learned to collaborate and share with others. [00:14:49] Dorothy's reflections on the last few years, and the current moment in the industry. [00:16:49] How the different skills are opening up new avenues in the industry. [00:19:33] Current challenges in the organizing industry and Dorothy's positive spin on things! [00:22:20] Cultural perceptions of organizing and the progress that has been made in awareness. [00:23:18] Escaping the shame and the normalization of the common needs for assistance. [00:25:12] Considerations around the environment and the move to more minimal materialism. [00:27:28] Dorothy's personal practice of eliminating unnecessary possessions. [00:28:13] The spirit of performance and fun; how Dorothy has built her career on TV. [00:30:12] Closing remarks from Dorothy and her message to the organizing community! Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: NAPO — Dorothy Breininger — Dorothy Breininger on Twitter — The Cancer Concierge — Hoarders — Wall Street Journal — Forbes — O Magazine — Today Show — Dr. Phil Show — The View — The Doctors — UCLA — LA County Hoarding Task Force — LA Times — Marie Kondo — Spark Joy — Cass Aarssen's Clutterbug — Hot Mess House — Elon Musk — Clare Kumar —
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Unmute - Painless Virtual Communication
03/09/2022
Unmute - Painless Virtual Communication
The past two years have reshaped the way we communicate with each other, and today we’re going to be tackling the hyper-relevant topic of Zoom Doom! Our principal point of connection these days is through a screen and many of us are simply exhausted by it. The phenomenon of virtual communication isn’t going anywhere anytime soon and joining us today to dissect the causes and provide solutions for the dreaded Zoom fatigue is communication expert, Lauren Sergy. Lauren has recently published a new book, Unmute!: How to Master Virtual Meetings and Reclaim Your Sanity, and today she shares her findings with us, as well as some astute advice for navigating the world through your webcam. In this episode, we delve into how we should be showing up in a virtual space and how to manage our energy so that we can show up for others and maintain connections. We find out how we can use the medium to its full potential, acknowledge its distinctions, and ensure that it is approached with intentionality and inclusivity. Lauren comments on the emotional nimbleness required to read the virtual room, and gives us a succinct, straightforward answer to the great question of our age: cameras on or cameras off? Tune in for some great tips on how to breed consistency, prioritize your viewer, and generally ensure a painless virtual interaction! Key Points From This Episode: What Zoom fatigue is, what causes it, and what to do about it! [00:03:39] The importance of eye-to-eye contact in our culture, and the lack thereof on Zoom. [00:06:39] How to make intentional eye contact easier via virtual communication. [00:08:26] The difficulty for those with introverted temperaments! [00:10:23] The issue of physical orientation when one uses multiple monitors. [00:11:10] How to protect your energy to maintain connection in virtual interactions. [00:12:57] The tendency to be too static in a virtual communication environment. [00:14:33] When to look to camera and when to observe in different contexts. [00:16:20] The value of the virtual communication medium! [00:19:36] The distinct nature of the medium and how to facilitate intentionality and inclusivity. [00:19:59] How we shrink our facial expressions on camera and why we should dial it up. [00:24:37] Why virtual interactions require emotional nimbleness. [00:26:29] Cameras on or cameras off? How to optimize the experience for everyone. [00:27:02] How to accommodate neurodiversity and ensure consistent communication. [00:33:53] The importance of showing up and following in-person etiquette! [00:36:09] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: NAPO —
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Emotional Labor - How it's Affecting Your Organizing Clients
02/23/2022
Emotional Labor - How it's Affecting Your Organizing Clients
Emotional labor as Regina Lark describes it is the unseen, unnoticed, unwaged, unwritten, and unanticipated work women do at home. Gender inequity is an age-old issue that women still bear the brunt of and Regina joins us today to break down why it is that we are dumped with the job of homemaking, regardless of how our brains are hardwired, and why we feel such a deep sense of shame if we can’t stay on top of the mess! With a doctorate in women’s history and years of experience as a professional organizer, Regina has married her expertise to write Emotional Labor: Why a Woman’s Work Is Never Done and What To Do About It. In our conversation, we learn how Regina’s male and female clients tend to have a different relationship with mess and how same-sex relationships differ from heterosexual relationships in terms of emotional labor. We discuss wages for housework campaigns and homemaking strikes over the course of history, and how the delegation model in the modern home needs to change! Tune in to find out how strategically stopping your household tasks can work to enforce equity in the home and discover a neat tip to measure labor equity and prove what your work is worth! Key Points From This Episode: Introducing Regina Lark and the important work she does in the world! [00:00:33] How her Ph.D. in women’s history and experience as a professional organizer prompted her to write Emotional Labor. [00:03:59] How ADHD was only diagnosed in men and the impact on ADHD women. [00:08:06] Regina’s profound definition of emotional labor and how she landed on it. [00:09:29] The different relationships Regina’s male and female clients have with mess. [00:13:22] What a professional organizer’s responsibility to the client involves. [00:14:04] Who Judith Kolberg is and how she helped Regina in the book-writing process. [00:16:14] How the household delegation model needs to change and why. [00:17:31] Clare shares how she strategically stopped doing household tasks to enforce equity in her home. [00:18:51] How to measure equity in the home and prove what your work is worth! [00:22:12] What wages for housework campaigns are and where and when they started. [00:23:53] The women’s strike from homemaking and sex in Iceland and the resultant gender equity there today. [00:24:35] How same-sex and heterosexual relationships differ in terms of emotional labor. [00:26:45] Anticipating changes with the emotional labor lifecycle. [00:28:50] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
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Intuition - Tapping Into Your Inner Guide
02/09/2022
Intuition - Tapping Into Your Inner Guide
We've all heard the phrase “Just go with your gut.” But this is often easier said than done. So what exactly is intuition, and how we can make the right decision as entrepreneurs or in our personal life using this subconscious phenomenon? Intuition expert and author of two books, Fail Fast, Succeed Faster, and Gut! What it is. How to trust it. How to use it, Sunil Godse joins us today from London Ontario to break down intuition and how we can begin to tune into it both personally and professionally. Sunil is an entrepreneur who has grown several business ventures that have collectively earned over $20 million in revenues before moving on to become a management consultant helping others find success in their businesses. After realizing that the reason why most businesses fail to create a trusted brand is that they ignore their intuition, he developed a process called Intuitive Branding, which helps businesses leverage the power of intuition and, as the title of his podcast says plainly, "Crush Your Competition In Under 14 Seconds.” As can be seen, by previous clients such as Citibank, SAP, Rogers Wireless, and Western Digital, his advice simply works. Today we cover the four types of intuition (and how each of us has one that is the strongest), why intuitive functioning is like driving a car, and some science behind how our brains and bodies accumulate and communicate this “Gut feeling”. You'll hear some fascinating case studies as well as honest, personal, and tragic reflections on those recognizable moments where we aren't taking our internal signals seriously. With a wealth of information on both personal intuition and corporate intuition, this episode provides key tools and information for literally everyone to better their lives. It's time to listen to your gut and tune in! Key Points From This Episode: Introducing Sunil and our topic for today: intuition. [00:00:42] Why his book is called Gut! [00:03:29] Talking about how omens can be positive or negative. [00:05:33] A story of how someone found their unique signal telling them something's off. [00:06:21] Why intuitive functioning is like driving a car. [00:06:58] A case study to explain the four types of intuition. [00:07:28] Clare shares a personal experience of taking a long time to listen to her internal signals. [00:15:31] How Sunil got into this area and the science behind it. [00:16:44] Reflections on feeling the pressure of societal norms and expectations. [00:19:09] Sunil shares a tragic story of a time that he didn't follow his intuition. [00:21:04] Defining intuition according to individual belief systems. [00:22:12] Some exact timing on when our intuition kicks in. [00:23:20] How we all have one of the four types of intuition that is stronger than the other three. [00:24:50] How we can tune into intuition and embed it into our daily lives. [00:25:49] Using your intuition when working as an organizer and going into people's homes. [00:27:33] Understanding micro-expressions and some of the training Sunil does. [00:29:12] Talking about how to listen to the signals when it comes to relationships.[00:30:25] Diving into intuitive drivers that relate to our values and our sense of purpose. [00:33:42] How the power of stepping into authentic expression brings huge expansion to your life. [00:35:12] Sunil talks about decluttering your life of people who don't support your joy. [00:35:55] A call to get in contact and let Sunil know what resonated with you! [00:38:00] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: —
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The Upcoming NAPO Conference with Melynda Weiland
01/26/2022
The Upcoming NAPO Conference with Melynda Weiland
Here at NAPO we are all incredibly excited because it is nearly time for our upcoming conference. This will be our first in-person conference in three years and it is happening from the 27th to the 30th of April at the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel. This will be the second NAPO conference organized by Melynda Weiland, and today she joins us on the show to tell us everything we need to know about it. Melynda is the Owner of Order to Everything, an organization business that NAPO has been an integral part of. In our conversation, Melynda talks about how this year's conference theme “Educate, Elevate, Celebrate”, will play out in the learning paths, networking opportunities, and speaking events in the schedule. We hear more about some of the guest speakers from outside of NAPO that have been invited and the value they will be providing in their talks. Melynda gets into the five learning tracks and how they are geared toward NAPO members at all experience levels. She also speaks about the benefits of in-person gatherings, weighs in on COVID safety precautions, and shares resources for those who have additional questions about the upcoming event. If you are curious about the NAPO community this is a great opportunity to listen in because Melynda is going to give us a sterling understanding of what will be on offer at the conference. Do you have questions about NAPO 2022 in Baltimore, Maryland? Please contact our NAPO Conference Program Chair, Ann Zanon via email at or by phone at 203-858-0475. Key Points From This Episode: Where and when the conference will happen and how to find it online. [00:03:04] The theme for the conference: “Educate, Elevate, Celebrate”! [00:04:29] Celebrating an in-person gathering, member achievements, and more. [00:04:39] Educating ourselves by sharing skills and building a bigger network. [00:05:28] Elevation through a new education track, fresh content, and more. [00:07:08] The five education tracks around organization and productivity with tiers for all skill levels. [00:08:03] ‘Organization Strategies’, ‘Productivity Innovations’, ‘Mind and Behavior’, ‘Entrepreneurial Skills and Mindset’, and ‘Technology for the Future’. [00:08:34] The outside speakers who will attend and what makes them interesting. [00:10:45] Why NAPO chose Crystal Washington to be the keynote speaker. [00:11:36] COVID considerations and how the organizers are making the conference safe. [00:15:13] How people can find out more about the conference and get their questions answered. [00:18:17] Craving authentic connection and why this conference will be special. [00:21:42] Why the Baltimore location will add an extra layer of value to the conference. [00:23:40] How the conference will be especially beneficial to new NAPO members. [00:27:32] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: NAPO Conference —
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Decoding Greatness (EP.90)
01/01/2022
Decoding Greatness (EP.90)
Joining us in conversation today is Ron Friedman, social psychologist, former academic, speaker, and author. He is here to share wisdom from his latest book, Decoding Greatness, where he draws on his research into pattern recognition, skills acquisition, and creative genius, to discuss insights about high-performing athletes, musicians, chefs, and business leaders. Tune in to hear Ron's thoughts on the purpose of collecting, his opinion on productivity programs, and how he feels about marketing his writing. Ron talks about the fallacy that commercial success reflects the quality of your work and why we believe it, as well as why the pandemic has hampered our collective creative growth. We touch on the debate around whether we should all return to the office or not, and Ron reveals some of the secrets behind his writing process. He also tells us why Don Draper’s “derivative with a twist” is the sweet spot of creativity, and shares who he considers to be his greatest influences. Find out what he hopes the book will give readers: plenty of practical tools, and an opportunity to demystify the great works that have inspired them. Join us today to hear all this and more. Key Points From This Episode: An introduction to today’s guest, social psychologist, academic, and author, Ron Friedman. [00:00:29] Ron shares what forms part of his collector landscape: books and stories. [00:03:10] The purpose of collecting which is to look for insights beyond the surface. [00:04:11] Some of the productivity programs that are gaining traction like Mem and Notion. [00:07:15] What it is like for Ron to revisit his book during podcast interviews. [00:09:20] How Ron feels about the marketing piece of being an author: he would rather not! [00:10:38] The fallacy that commercial success is equal to quality work and why we fall for it. [00:12:24] Economic uncertainty and anxiety as factors that have limited creative growth during the pandemic. [00:13:15] What Ron thinks about the debate around whether we should return to the office. [00:15:15] Ron’s writing process and how he illustrates ideas with stories. [00:18:00] Why derivative with a twist is the ideal sweet spot. [00:18:40] One of the arguments in the book: you should have license to experience broadly. [00:20:35] Pliio, the folding tool product that Clare designed which never took off. [00:23:05] Who he considers his greatest influences as a writer and creative. [00:25:15] Deconstructing TEDtalks according to Ron. [00:29:18] His hope for the book: to give you practical tools and demystify the great works that have inspired you. [00:30:02] Where you can find out more about the book and purchase it with a free course. [00:30:54] An invitation to reach out and give us feedback so that we can improve our podcast. [00:33:14] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: —
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How NAPO Can Help You Build a Better Business (EP.89)
12/08/2021
How NAPO Can Help You Build a Better Business (EP.89)
December marks the start of a very important event in NAPO’s calendar: Go Month. Here to tell us more is none other than NAPO president, Amy Tokos. Along with being a certified professional organizer, she is the owner of Freshly Organized and a productivity expert whose work has been featured in major publications. Tune in to hear how Amy stumbled upon NAPO, how it became pivotal to her development, and the story of how she came to be president. We also talk about the amazing opportunities that come with being a product exhibitor at NAPO, why you should join a virtual chapter, and how volunteering can help you to find what works for you. Amy shares why she wishes she had gone to conference sooner, and what she would have done differently when she first got involved, before sharing her tips on getting the most out of conference. Go Month is one of the best ways for newcomers to get involved at NAPO. Tune in to hear what you’ll get out of it, why you should join us, and how to get involved! Key Points From This Episode: • An introduction to today’s guest, NAPO president Amy Tokos. [00:01:23] • How she has been participating in NAPO and how she became president. [00:02:32] • What listeners can do to become involved in Get Involved Month at NAPO. [00:04:01] • What NAPO Point is and how you can find answers to your questions there. [00:07:59] • The business-building piece of NAPO that goes beyond organizing. [00:09:43] • What the virtual chapter is and the meetups Amy considers to be the best part. [00:11:02] • Why being a product exhibitor at NAPO is an amazing opportunity. [00:15:03] • How, if you are an introvert, you should find the opportunities that resonate with you. [00:16:48] • Amy recommends that you volunteer to learn more about what works for you. [00:18:43] • Why Amy wishes she had gone to conference sooner. [00:21:17] Her tips on getting the most out of conference, and choosing a roommate. [00:23:06] How Go Month is one of the best ways for a newcomer to get involved at NAPO. [00:26:04] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: —
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Building a Right-Sized Productivity Business (EP.88)
11/24/2021
Building a Right-Sized Productivity Business (EP.88)
Today we are so lucky to welcome productivity consultant, Debbie Rosemont, to the show to talk about her journey as a business owner, the important transitions she has made, and why adjusting your company to suit your needs and goals can be one of the most powerful tools for success! In our chat, we get into some thoughts on finding fulfillment, facing fears, dealing with leads, and building the right kind of business. Debbie started her company, Simply Placed, almost 20 years ago, and since then has used specific moments of her life as the compass for deciding the next direction to head in. Our guest has a strong commitment to community, and we also talk a little about referrals and the benefits of a network of like-minded professionals. So to hear all about this inspiring business and its fabulous owner, be sure to join us for another great episode of Stand Out! Key Points From This Episode: [00:01:42] A little bit about Debbie, her background, and her company Simply Placed. [00:03:32] Clarifying the work that Simply Placed does, and their evolution over time. [00:05:20] The part-time model that inspired Debbie's business and the pivots they have made. [00:07:59] The need to redefine success and realign goals constantly. [00:09:14] Increasing impact and revenue; the important variables for these goals. [00:11:59] How Debbie approaches the idea of fulfillment and its relation to the growth of her business. [00:13:05] Escaping the negative impacts of hustle culture and our conditioning. [00:15:08] The power of saying no and opening up more space through focus. [00:18:02] The lessons and signals that we can use to evolve our business. [00:19:40] How Debbie deals with leads and her approach to referrals. [00:21:35] Debbie's advice for listeners looking to make a shift and wondering where to start. [00:23:30] The constant process of refinement of a business; how excitement translates into success! Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: NAPO — Debbie Rosemont on LinkedIn — Simply Placed —
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Creating Outer Order and the Four Tendencies (EP.87)
11/10/2021
Creating Outer Order and the Four Tendencies (EP.87)
This conversation weaves together our love of organizing and helping clients with the idea of better understanding how to motivate and inspire clients who may not be excited about this particular prospect. Our guest today is Gretchen Rubin, she is the author of several New York Times bestsellers, Outer Order, Inner Calm, Better Than Before, The Happiness Project, Happier at Home, and The Four Tendencies. Gretchen has insight, not only into getting organized, or as she calls it, 'creating inner order and outer calm', but also has deeply explored motivation, personal preferences, and tendencies for ways of showing up. Gretchen delights in enormous readership of her blog and books which have sold more than 3.5 million copies worldwide in more than 30 languages. She has made frequent TV appearances and is in high-demand as a speaker. She’s also a CBS News contributor and on her weekly podcast, you can get direct access to Gretchen’s wisdom! Today we will be exploring both Outer Order, Inner Calm, and The Four Tendencies, so make sure to tune in for an amazing conversation with a super special guest! Key Points From This Episode: [0:04:35] Gretchen describes the concept of each of The Four Tendencies: upholder, questioner, obliger, rebel [00:05:39] The difference between inner and outer expectations. [00:05:56] Upholders: their motto is, “Discipline is my freedom.| [00:06:05] Questioners: their motto is, “I’ll comply if you convince me why.” [00:06:25] Obliger: their motto is, “You can count on me and I’m counting on you to count on me.” [00:08:07] Rebel: their motto is, “You can’t make me and neither can I.” [00:08:40] How to keep in mind tendencies when you are working with clients or customers. [00:09:50] The thing about rebels and their partnerships; factors to keep in mind! [00:13:08] We discuss the amount that outer order contributes to inner calm. [00:14:40] Hobby organizers, inspired organizers, reluctant organizers, and wishful organizers. [00:17:02] We talk about the highly sensitive person, and catering to them out of love. [00:21:00] Is it your problem to solve? How to navigate different personalities. [00:24:07] It’s not about throwing everything out, but rather the clutter that’s getting in the way of what’s important to you. [00:25:09] What’s piquing Gretchen’s interest these days; My Don’t Break the Chain Tracker. [00:27:43] More on Gretchen's Know Yourself Better Journal! Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: NAPO — Gretchen Rubin — Gretchen Rubin on LinkedIn — Gretchen Rubin on Twitter — Gretchen Rubin on Facebook — Gretchen Rubin on Instagram — Outer Order, Inner Calm — The Four Tendencies — The Quiz — Happier with Gretchen Rubin — My Don’t Break the Chain Tracker — Know Yourself Better —
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DEI - Learning from Lived Experience (EP.86)
10/27/2021
DEI - Learning from Lived Experience (EP.86)
Today we have two wonderful guests on the show to share their thoughts and experiences in our ongoing discussion of diversity, equity, and inclusion, or DEI. Janine Sarna-Jones is a certified professional organizer and certified move manager, and has a history with NAPO stretching back 20 years! Todd Allan started his work in organizing focusing on residential projects but has graduated to the digital space, applying his love of technology to help clients deal with digital clutter, specializing in Google Workspace and Evernote. In today's chat, we spend some time unpacking the personal and professional realms to diversity, equity, and inclusion, talking about awareness, alignment, action. Our guests highlight the power of noticing, share some ideas about speaking up and how to go about this, the role of the ally, and much more! This conversation fully embodies the nuanced nature of the subject, and the need for personalized choices, a strong stance, and most importantly, necessary change in the world around us. So to hear it all from Clare, Todd, and Janine, be sure to listen in today on Stand Out! Key Points From This Episode: [00:04:54] Opening thoughts from our guests on the topic of diversity, equity, and inclusion. [00:11:56] Janine's upbringing in East Palo Alto and experiences of otherness. [00:16:27] The idea of masking and how Todd's early years impacted his later life. [00:21:04] Balancing genuine curiosity with sensitivity to the offense that can be caused. [00:25:48] The kinds of questions that might make people uncomfortable in certain circumstances. [00:32:44] An approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion that focuses on overcoming hurdles. [00:36:39] Thoughts on the continual journey of learning, compassion, and questioning. [00:38:02] The work of allies and some simple steps towards better awareness and action. [00:43:48] Todd's story of a homophobic joke, speaking out, and the positive results. [00:47:17] Applying the lessons of diversity, equity, and inclusion to the organizing profession. [00:51:37] Reflecting on the DEI initiatives at NAPO and the work that is still to be done! Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: NAPO — Todd Allan on LinkedIn — Strctured Space — Janine Sarna-Jones on LinkedIn — Organize Me Inc. — Evernote — NASMM — NABPO — The Painted Bird — Clare Kumar on LinkedIn —
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TV Show Influence on the Organizing Industry (EP.85)
10/12/2021
TV Show Influence on the Organizing Industry (EP.85)
Whether you’re interested in re-organizing and renovations or you just love a good reality TV show, you’ve likely followed many of the TV shows about organizing since the early 2000’s, from Neat with Hellen Buttigeig in Canada to Mission Organization, Clean Sweep, and Enough Already, which featured today’s guest, Australian-born Peter Walsh. In this episode, you'll hear all about the staggering amount of clutter that the average Australian has in their home and how the pandemic has influenced people to declutter and restore their homes, with Space Invaders at the forefront of helping them to declutter and restore their homes. We touch on the role of overwhelm in preventing people from making a change, and why Peter chooses to talk about a different family situation with a different type of clutter on each episode. Peter tells us about the underlying themes that run through clutter: trauma, abuse, and isolation, and why organizers must deal with them in order to help people declutter. Next, we explore how clutter tells the story of your life and why he believes that the role of an organizer is spiritual. He shares his policy to honor emotional treasure, offer people options when it comes to financial treasure, and the tension that exists between design and organization in every show. We get real about the discrepancy between what is presented on TV and online and what is possible for you, before taking a moment to celebrate television’s role in inspiring an increasingly sophisticated audience. Peter delves into his 20 years of experience and how this has enabled him to complete so much in just two days, as well as telling a powerful story about an experience he had with Oprah, which highlights that, at heart, we are all the same. We hope you join us to benefit from Peter’s wealth of knowledge and experience today! Key Points From This Episode: Peter’s journey, starting with Clean Sweep, and now with Space Invaders. [00:02:48] The staggering amount of clutter that the average Australian has in their home. [00:03:26] How the pandemic has influenced people to declutter and restore their homes. [00:04:07] The role of Space Invaders in helping people to declutter, renovate, and upcycle. [0:04:13] The feeling of being overwhelmed that stops people and how to overcome this. [00:05:25] Why every episode focuses on different family situations and types of clutter. [00:05:46] The underlying themes that run through clutter: trauma, abuse, and isolation. [00:06:35] Why you must deal with the underlying issues in order to help people declutter. [00:07:03] Peter’s role guiding clients through a process of dealing with their things. [00:08:20] How your clutter tells the story of your life. [00:08:34] The shared root between ‘organic’ and ‘organizer’ and the implications this holds. [00:10:01] Why Peter believes that organizers are agents of the spiritual. [00:10:42] Finding the treasures in your home as an important part of downsizing. [00:13:34] His policy to honor emotional treasure and offer options for financial treasure. [00:15:56] Lucas’s role in hunting for treasure while Peter tries to get rid of clutter. [00:17:49] The tension that exists between design and organization in every show. [00:18:47] The discrepancy between what is on TV and online and what is possible for you. [00:20:21] The role of television in inspiring today’s sophisticated audience. [00:20:30] Why Peter enjoys being an executive producer on Space Invaders. [00:23:01] How Peter’s 20 years of experience have set him up to achieve a lot in two days. [00:27:03] Peter’s favorite story, while Oprah was renovating her house. [00:28:39] Why the stuff we own has power, and that we are all the same, at heart. [00:29:00] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Peter Walsh on Twitter — Peter Walsh on Facebook — Peter Walsh on Instagram — Peter Walsh on YouTube — Peter Walsh Design — Space Invaders — Let it Go: Downsizing Your Way to a Happier Life — NAPO — NAPO Podcast —
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Clever Communication - Crafting an Effective Message (EP.84)
09/21/2021
Clever Communication - Crafting an Effective Message (EP.84)
As organizing and productivity professionals, communication is intricately tied into every part of our lives, whether we are speaking to clients, creating content online, or presenting and speaking at live events. So the sooner we can improve our communication skills and be the best at delivering our message, the better for everyone! Leveling up in this way will immediately lead to getting more work, and the work being more impactful, so we are very happy to welcome leadership communication expert Hope Timberlake, to share her wisdom on this vital subject! Hope is a speaker, trainer, and author, whose new book, Speak Up, Dammit will be available for purchase in October of 2021. Hope is dedicated to elevating the voices of women and the underrepresented in leadership, and her passion for persuasive messaging, relationship building, and executive presence, is empowering and hugely inspiring! In our chat today, Hope talks about sharing facts not favors, stating the bottom line on top, embracing the pause, and building confidence in your abilities. She runs through many helpful concepts and thought-provoking observations, and listeners can expect to come away with a renewed sense of agency for all of their future communications. So for all that and more, listen in with us today, on Stand Out! Key Points From This Episode: [00:02:47] The story behind Hope's book title and her main inspiration to write it. [00:05:08] First steps for developing your message to best reach an audience. [00:08:27] Important conversations in today's evolving professional landscape. [00:13:16] Hope's central concept of stating the bottom line on top, always. [00:18:02] Inclusivity and opening up the conversation to a broader range of minds. [00:19:53] Mistakes made with regards to listening; avoiding the fear of silence, and embracing the pause. [00:23:02] The power of ending statements with clarity instead of uncertainty. [00:25:20] Avoiding filler phrases and words, where these come from, and what to do about them. [00:31:46] A powerful exercise to create a stronger connection to pausing and emphasizing. [00:34:14] Hope's call to action for all of our listeners to record and listen to yourself! Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: NAPO — Hope Timberlake — Speak Up, Dammit! — Hope Timberlake on Twitter — Hope Timberlake on YouTube — NAPO on YouTube —
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Build Your Community with a Facebook Group with Ingrid Jansen and Lesley Spellman, of The Declutter Hub (EP.83)
09/07/2021
Build Your Community with a Facebook Group with Ingrid Jansen and Lesley Spellman, of The Declutter Hub (EP.83)
Today’s guests are declutterers and organizers by profession, and they’ve recently become masters of marketing too! Ingrid Jansen and Lesley Spellman are the founders of The Declutter Hub, which started out as an online course and has broadened its scope to multiple courses, a membership, a Facebook group with a very engaged online community, and a podcast. Because of the safe and lighthearted space that Ingrid and Lesley have created, their business experienced huge growth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their growth can also be attributed to the fact that they have figured out how to work with the Facebook algorithm and use it to drive up engagement on their platforms, and they share some of their top tips in today’s episode. You’ll also hear about the challenges they have experienced along their journey, and the things that make it all worth it. There’s never a dull moment with these two so be sure to tune in today! Key Points From This Episode: Where the idea of The Declutter Hub originated. [00:03:54] The ethos that The Declutter Hub Facebook group is built upon. [00:04:51] Growth that The Declutter Hub experienced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. [00:06:28] Why Lesley and Ingrid feel it is important that people know who is in charge of The Declutter Hub. [00:07:07] Evolution of The Declutter Hub Facebook group from its humble beginnings. [00:10:48] Areas of their business which Ingrid and Lesley outsource some help for. [00:12:58] How members uphold the integrity of the Facebook group. [00:14:05] How Lesley and Ingrid have reframed their mistakes. [00:17:17] An example of one of the crazier things that Ingrid and Lesley have posted on their Facebook page, and how these drive up engagement. [00:18:20] The balance between planned and spontaneous content on The Declutter Hub Facebook group. [00:21:25] Challenges that come with running a Facebook group. [00:24:04] What Ingrid and Lesley wish they had started doing earlier in terms of their Facebook group. [00:25:49] A strategy that Lesley and Ingrid used which resulted in a lot of growth. [00:27:43] Why Ingrid and Lesley have chosen to link all the businesses and their personal profiles together. [00:30:30] Lesley shares the biggest challenge that they have experienced with The Declutter Hub. [00:32:32] Ingrid shares what she is most proud of about The Declutter Hub. [00:33:30] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: The Declutter Hub — The Declutter Hub on Facebook — The Declutter Hub Podcast — NAPO — NAPO Podcast —
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Organizing with Students with Tiffany Blassingame (EP.82)
08/10/2021
Organizing with Students with Tiffany Blassingame (EP.82)
Teachers are often under an enormous amount of pressure, and certain things in the classroom get pushed aside. One of these skills is organization. Tiffany Blassingame is the founder of Simple Organization, which looks to help busy adults and their families develop organized solutions for homework and school. As a parent, finding the balance between progressing toward your own goals and stewarding your children to theirs is not an easy task, and this is where Tiffany comes in. She has also been a member of NAPO for over five years and is a founding member of the National Association of Black Professional Organizers. In today's episode, Tiffany talks about the value of teaching students organizational skills. While these may not be innate, they can be cultivated in a supportive way to ensure that the students’ time at school and in life generally is more enjoyable. We hear about some of the strategies she uses to help students and their families, what sessions with her typically look like, along with what Tiffany finds most rewarding about her work. Key Points From This Episode: Why students need additional help when it comes to organizing. [00:03:16] The balance between imparting skills and helping children too much. [00:05:06] Three things Tiffany focuses on when helping students get organized. [00:07:33] How to help students manage their energy. [00:13:57] The link between project management and managing your energy. [00:15:32] Tiffany's approach to talking with families about sleep. [00:16:24] How Tiffany helps families develop an organizational system. [00:19:52] The typical timeline that Tiffany's projects typically last. [00:22:34] What a session with Tiffany would usually look like. [00:24:18] Hear what Tiffany finds most rewarding about her job. [00:25:38] How Tiffany helps students with cognitive challenges through her work. [00:27:15] Student organizers work with students; they do not do things for [00:29:29] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Tiffany Blassingame — Tiffany Blassingame on Facebook — Simple Organization — National Association of Black Professional Organizers — Smart but Scattered — Smart But Scattered — NAPO — NAPO Podcast —
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Working with Gifted Clients with Kathleen Crombie (EP.81)
07/27/2021
Working with Gifted Clients with Kathleen Crombie (EP.81)
Professionals in our field work with a very diverse range of clients, and for today’s episode, we have brought in Kathleen Crombie, a counseling psychologist who has extensive experience working with neurodiverse populations. This work experience, combined with the fact that Kathleen is a gifted person herself, make her the perfect candidate for giving advice to anyone who works with gifted or highly sensitive people, which she does today in abundance. Kathleen explains the differences between these two groups, as well as the importance of not using these labels as a judgement, but rather as a way of understanding someone who may be different to yourself. Our conversation also covers the joys and challenges of working with gifted or highly sensitive people, and the value in having self-awareness. Being gifted can often be more of a curse than a gift, and it is up to us to meet our clients where they are at, and make them feel as comfortable and accepted as possible. Key Points From This Episode: An introduction to today’s guest, Kathleen Crombie, and her extensive educational and professional background working with neurodivergent clients. [00:02:12] Common characteristics of highly sensitive people (HSP). [00:05:09] Similarities and differences between HSP’s and gifted people. [00:09:35] Why being gifted can be more of a curse than a gift in certain settings. [00:12:45] How Kathleen discovered that she is gifted. [00:14:03] Kathleen shares more characteristics of gifted people. [00:16:14] The importance of focusing on working with people’s strengths, not just on fixing their deficits. [00:21:08] What it means when someone is referred to as twice exceptional. [00:21:46] Labels should not be a form of judgement, but rather a form of care. [00:22:52] Why Kathleen chooses to disclose her personal struggles to her patients, even though her training discouraged it. [00:25:58] Practical advice from Kathleen for people who are working with gifted or highly sensitive clients. [00:27:12] Claire explains how the Brain in Hand app is useful for gifted and highly sensitive people. [00:32:19] The value in having self-awareness as a professional dealing with other people. [00:34:19] Questions to ask your clients which can help you put yourself in their shoes. [00:34:54] Why Kathleen and Claire will usually meet with clients outside of the cluttered rooms that they are going to work on. [00:39:10] Joys and challenges that Kathleen experiences working with gifted and highly sensitive people. [00:40:56] Never stop learning. [00:46:15] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: In Order To Organize — Kathleen Crombie Email Address — Kathleen Crombie on Instagram — Kathleen Crombie on Twitter — Brain in Hand — Happy Space Pod — NAPO — NAPO Podcast —
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Why You Want to be Indistractable with Nir Eyal (EP.80)
07/13/2021
Why You Want to be Indistractable with Nir Eyal (EP.80)
We all know the feeling of setting goals and intentions, only to find that we were unable to reach them because we became distracted by something else. What you may not know is that there are specific mechanisms which cause us to become distracted, and there are practical tools we can utilize to help us overcome them (these are not just life-hacks, they really work). Nir Eyal, after a profound moment in which his daughter showed him how easily distracted he was, went on a journey of discovery which culminated in his second book, Indistractable. In the pursuit of indistractability, the importance of planning cannot be overstated, but Nir stresses that we need to move away from to-do lists and plan in a way that allows us to live in alignment with our values. In today’s episode, Nir also explains the three other steps in the process of shedding our distractibility, and how we can learn to harness our psychological powers in order to live our most fulfilling lives. Key Points From This Episode: Hear about the profoundly impactful moment with his daughter which inspired Nir to write Indistractable. [00:02:59] How our tendency to live in a distracted state negatively impacts our entire lives. [00:06:00] Definitions of distraction and (its opposite) traction. [00:07:48] How sometimes, even things that feel productive are actually distractions, and why this type of distraction is so dangerous. [00:09:23] The healthy way to make use of technology. And no, you don’t have to give up social media! [00:10:49] Internal triggers versus external triggers, and which ones lead to more distracting actions. [00:11:10] Step one to becoming indistractable. [00:12:26] Why it’s better to tell yourself, “Not yet,” rather than, “No”; the 10-minute rule. [00:13:55] What it means to surf the urge, and the type of dialog you should have with yourself during this time. [00:17:00] How planning your day on a time-focused basis differs from running your life on a to-do list; and which one will help you become indistractable. [00:19:46] Psychological reactance; an explanation of our inherent tendency to rebel against being told what to do. [00:23:50] Ways that we can change our mindset around planning our time. [00:25:03] What it really means to be an indistractable person. [00:28:47] A practical example of how to hack back external triggers (many more of which can be found in Nir’s book). [00:30:05] How Nir defines values, and how planning will help you live in accordance with your values. [00:32:30] Reasons that, on average, people take three times longer to finish a task than they had planned. [00:34:07] Pacts as the last line of defense against distraction. [00:36:01] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: NAPO — NAPO Podcast —
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How to Think about Tech without Losing Your Mind with Kim Osner (EP.79)
06/22/2021
How to Think about Tech without Losing Your Mind with Kim Osner (EP.79)
The world of tech can feel overwhelming, with endless resources available and many ongoing changes arising. On today’s episode we speak with Kim Osner, owner of Need Another You, a virtual, organizing and productivity company based in Washington, DC. She shares some golden tips for organizing and automating your tech life to support and organize your life, rather than being a hindrance to your productivity. We start off the episode with an introduction to our guest and she tells us why she considers herself to be a ‘tech extrovert’. We go on to talk a bit about Clubhouse, the new kid on the social media block. Next, Kim offers us a pearl of wisdom: most technological glitches can be resolved by changing a setting. She touches on the coin shortage during the COVID19 pandemic and tells us why it is beneficial to stick with one host when you are securing domains. We talk about marketing automation as a home base and Kim shares with us her preferred method of organizing content. She gives us some insight into the ile system she currently uses and tells us about the four inboxes that support this. Next up, we talk about the two parts of a tech audit and Kim emphasizes the value of setting reminders in your calendar. We talk about Clubhouse and TikTok and Kim stresses the importance of not just giving up your time to anyone who wants it. Tune in today for some stellar practical insights on making technology work for you. We hope you join us! Key Points From This Episode: A bit about Kim’s background and why she considers herself to be a ‘tech extrovert’ [00:00:30]. Kim’s tips on how to get comfortable using Clubhouse, the new kid on the social media block. [00:03:36]. Why you should ask yourself: what part do I want to take on? [00:06:22]. How most technological problems can be solved by changing a setting [00:09:37]. Why there was a coin shortage during the COVID19 pandemic [00:11:45]. Why it is beneficial to stick with one host when you are choosing a domain [00:13:44]. How to find the domain that suits you and why this comes down to preference [00:17:23]. Your marketing automation method as your ‘home base’ [00:17:30]. Kim’s preferred method of organizing content [00:25:06]. How Kim developed the file system she currently uses with four inboxes [00:27:31]. The two parts of a tech audit: what you download and what you subscribe to [00:29:15]. The value of setting reminders in your calendar [00:31:34]. Thoughts on Clubhouse and TikTok [00:35:47]. Why you don’t have to give up your time to any random person who wants it [00:38:12]. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
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Step Into Your Swagger with Self-Acceptance, Your Biggest Asset with Leslie Ehm (EP.78)
06/08/2021
Step Into Your Swagger with Self-Acceptance, Your Biggest Asset with Leslie Ehm (EP.78)
Get ready to change your definition of swagger, and to be inspired to do the work to find your own! Our guest today is Leslie Ehm; creative director, training guru, author of Swagger, and an all-round love-filled badass. As you’ll hear in more detail in this episode, finding your swagger is all about stepping into your authentic self and living your truth. Swagger looks different for everyone and leaves no room for judgement. It is a common occurrence for human beings to feel fragmented and experience an inability to be themselves; this is largely due to a few “blockers” which Leslie describes for us. Fortunately, there is a way to overcome these, and Leslie is just the right person to teach us all how. We explore the three main driving forces behind swagger, why you shouldn’t be afraid of asking for a do-over, the value that lies in F bombs, and the importance of knowing when you should apologize and when you absolutely should not. If you’re ready to experience the magic that comes with finding your swagger, this is a great place to start! Key Points From This Episode: Swagger, as defined by Leslie. [00:03:35] Who Leslie’s swagger icon is, and why. [00:05:24] Where Leslie’s ideas intersect with Todd Herman’s (author of The Alter Ego Effect) and where they diverge. [00:08:14] Fragmentation that many people experience, and how Leslie has learned to overcome this. [00:09:24] Clare explains how she has evolved as an entrepreneur over the years. [00:10:43] Magic that happens when you start speaking your truth and stepping into your authentic self. [00:12:02] Blockers that Leslie has identified which prevent us from fully being ourselves. [00:16:40] Leslie’s motivation for writing [00:18:16] Why Leslie is an advocate for F bombs and other swear words. [00:19:37] The importance of being non-judgmental; everyone has a different kind of swagger. [00:22:10] Situations in which you should apologize and those in which you shouldn’t. [00:23:47] Understanding intention, truth and self-belief (the three drivers of swagger) and an example of how to manifest these in the right way. [00:29:55] Everybody makes mistakes; don’t be afraid of asking for a do-over. [00:34:36] The importance of figuring out if you click with someone before doing business with them. [00:36:18] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Swagger — Combustion — The Alter Ego Effect by Todd Herman — Google — The Walt Disney Company — PepsiCo — TD Bank — Uber — HBO — Brené Brown — Oprah Winfrey — Lady Gaga — Beyoncé — Ru Paul Charles — Ru Paul’s Drag Race — The Four Tendencies Quiz by Gretchen Rubin — Michael Bungay Stanier — NAPO University — NAPO — NAPO on YouTube — NAPO on Twitter — NAPO on Instagram — NAPO on Facebook — NAPO on LinkedIn —
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Permission Granted: Self-Care Strategies for a Healthy Business with Katie McDonald (EP.77)
05/25/2021
Permission Granted: Self-Care Strategies for a Healthy Business with Katie McDonald (EP.77)
In today’s society, we often put so much value on busyness that it forces us to neglect ourselves. We find ourselves trying to earn our places in the world through doing, and the more we do the more is expected of us. Our guest today, Katie McDonald, understands this too well. After early success as a high-performance corporate executive, followed by the intense responsibilities of motherhood, chronic self-neglect led her to the depths of overwhelm, depression, and illness. This is what led her on a journey to become a self-care strategist and inspired her to establish b.nourished, a holistic coaching program for executives. By viewing self-care as a key to success rather than an obstacle, Katie has curated proven practices through decades of self-study, speaking, and concierge coaching engagements. Katie and b.nourished are a testament to how, with intentionality and mindfulness, peace-of-mind and productivity can actually go hand in hand. In this show, Katie explains why self-care is a smart, effective business strategy, and it doesn’t have to come at the cost of productivity. She speaks about how slowing down is a powerful tool for getting things done and why self-neglect is actually selfish in a world that needs us at our best. Tuning in you’ll hear what “revenge bedtime procrastination” is and why we do it, the difference between being self-involved and self-evolved, and why the first assignment Katie gives her clients is to sit in silence and have a cup of tea. Key Points From This Episode: Clare’s personal revelation of the importance of self-care through her own auto-immune disease. [00:01:10] Katie describes her own experience from being a high-powered executive to coaching executives to help them integrate well-being with productivity. [00:03:53] Thoughts on what is wrong with our culture that we overvalue busyness and neglect ourselves. [00:05:53] How and why people are terrified of having nothing to do and being alone in their own thoughts. [00:06:40] Why the first assignment Katie gives her clients is to sit in silence and have a cup of tea. [00:08:08] Katie explains that we need to repair the relationships we have with ourselves. [00:09:46] Why people are good at saying yes, and bad at saying no, and until the basics are in place, the answer to everything else should be no. [00:10:36] The importance of asking ourselves “What do I need?” and staying quiet long enough to hear the answer. [00:12:40] How Katie works with clients to figure out what they need and comes up with a plan, as motivation is not enough. [00:16:24] What “revenge bedtime procrastination” is and why we do it. [00:21:54] The importance of checking in with your future self, or “paying yourself forward”. [00:22:51] The implications of context and adjusting one’s self-care routine for the specific season or situation. [00:28:04] The importance of knowing what you want or who you want to be so your life is intentional and not just reactive. [00:30:01] The difference between being self-involved and self-evolved: self-awareness is not just a birthright, it’s also a responsibility. [00:32:17] Your duty to stop being a doormat and set other people free to do the same. [00:35:07] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: b.nourished — b.nourished on LinkedIn — b.nourished on Twitter — b.nourished on Facebook — b.nourished on Instagram — b.nourished on Pinterest — NAPO — NAPO Podcast —
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The Self-Employed Life: Key Strategies for Sustainable Entrepreneurial Success with Jeffrey Shaw (EP.76)
05/11/2021
The Self-Employed Life: Key Strategies for Sustainable Entrepreneurial Success with Jeffrey Shaw (EP.76)
When you are self-employed, so much of your business and professional life seem to become intertwined. While many experts offer business advice or self-help, there is very little guidance out there on how to integrate these aspects, and other parts of your life, into a life that you love. Today’s guest is Jeffrey Shaw, speaker, small business coach, and author of The Self-Employed Life: Business and Personal Development Strategies That Create Sustainable Success. He explains that, in business, the only thing you can control is the environment that you set up for the results that you want. He offers a lot of practical advice that integrates business and marketing strategies, with spirituality, gratitude, and personal development. Tuning in, you’ll hear about the self-employed ecosystem, the importance of trusting in something bigger than yourself in business, and the concept of hug marketing. Discover helpful tools like a ‘What’s going right?’ journal, the practice of space switching, and other tips to help you best help people you’re meant to serve. Tune in today for a discussion rich in helpful takeaways! Key Points From This Episode: Claire explains that what’s been missing is really a lot of guidance as to how to be self-employed and how to create that business and life that you love. [00:01:32] An introduction to Jeffrey Shaw and his history as an entrepreneur. [00:02:07] Jeffery talks about the concept of the ‘self-employed ecosystem’ and the role of trust within it. [00:04:34] The importance of trusting in something bigger than yourself. [00:08:002] Thoughts on not being attached to an outcome. [00:09:10] How to accept the limits of what you can and can’t control in self-employment. [00:12:30] What a ‘What’s going right?’ journal is, and how it can help you. [00:13:17] Why you should acknowledge your efforts and not just your achievements. [00:17:43] Clare and Jeffrey discuss external validation from other people’s perceptions. [00:20:46] What space switching is and how it can fuel your energy and focus during the day. [00:24:03] Jeffrey talks about the concept of hug marketing as an alternative to funnel marketing. [00:30:34] Hear why Jeffrey suggests you “ditch the niche.” [00:27:41] The importance of dropping further into who you are so that the people you’re meant to serve can find you. [00:41:21] Why Jeffrey wrote The Self-Employed Life and the importance of integrating the personal and business aspects of your life when self-employed. [00:43:49]. Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Jeffrey Shaw — Jeffrey Shaw Email — Jeffrey Shaw on LinkedIn — Jeffrey Shaw on Twitter — Jeffrey Shaw on Facebook — Jeffrey Shaw on Instagram — Jeffrey Shaw on YouTube — Jeffery Shaw TED Talk — LINGO — The Self-Employed Life — The Self-Employed Life Podcast — Black Sheep — WeWork — NAPO — NAPO Podcast — NAPO, Inc on YouTube —
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How TikTok Can Boost Your Business with Leslie Hatch Gail (EP.75)
04/27/2021
How TikTok Can Boost Your Business with Leslie Hatch Gail (EP.75)
You may not have used it, but by now you’ve probably heard of TikTok, the newest social media platform to infiltrate the lives of millions of people across the world. Our guest today, Leslie Hatch Gail, is currently pursuing a PhD in psychology, while running her own business and a TikTok account which has become a sensation with 127 000 followers! She joins us on today’s show to share where her love for TikTok originated, and what has sustained this fond feeling towards the platform. If you aren’t sure where the benefits of TikTok lie in a professional sense, this dynamic woman makes that very clear in this episode! We dive into Leslie’s very first “accidental” post which went viral; the types of videos that she posts; life lessons that she has learnt through TikTok; the importance of having a thick skin when creating public content, and how she plans to utilize her TikTok status in the future. “Ready, Fire, Aim,” is her TikTok bio, and we would all do well to take a page out of Leslie’s book! Key Points From This Episode: Clare’s first experience using TikTok and how she has progressed since then. [00:01:44] How Leslie was drawn into the world of TikTok, and why she quickly got hooked. [00:04:07] Why Leslie prefers watching TikTok to watching Netflix. [00:06:00] The appeal that TikTok offers Leslie as a place to creating her own content. [00:07:01] One of the unique features of TikTok and how this benefits content creators on the platform. [00:08:57] What the majority of Leslie’s TikTok content consists of. [00:10:00] How to find Leslie on all social platforms. [00:11:29] Leslie’s “accidental” first TikTok post, and the response she received. [00:12:54] Followers and likes that Leslie has on her TikTok account [Hint: These are big numbers!] [00:15:16] The PhD that Leslie is pursuing, her plans for her business, and how TikTok relates to these elements of her life. [00:16:19] Ways Leslie uses TikTok to benefit her professionally, and her plans for the future. [00:18:56] Demographic representation of Leslie’s follower base. [00:23:20] Different titles that Leslie uses for her different video styles. [00:26:50] Leslie explains her “Ready, Fire, Aim” strategy and the nature of viral videos. [00:28:20] How the style of comments change as the volume of comments reaches a particular threshold. [00:30:32] Connection and the sense of community that is fostered through social media platforms, and personal stories from Clare and Leslie which highlight this. [00:31:29] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Declare Order — Declare Order on TikTok — Declare Order on Instagram — Declare Order on Facebook — Leslie Hatch Gail on LinkedIn — Tik Tok — The Home Edit — Apartment Therapy — Leslie Josel — Target — Hollister — Dancing with the Stars — Queer Eye for the Straight Guy — Carson Kressley — NAPO University — NAPO — NAPO on YouTube — NAPO on Twitter — NAPO on Instagram — NAPO on Facebook — NAPO on LinkedIn —
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Why DEI is a Business Imperative with Barbara Polk (EP.74)
04/12/2021
Why DEI is a Business Imperative with Barbara Polk (EP.74)
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is more important than ever following the recent global events that have thrust it into the spotlight, and dedicated employees at all levels are initiating efforts for their companies to be more DEI focused. Today’s guest is Barbara Polk, a DEI thought leader and facilitator with more than 25 years experience in human resources, operations leadership, and board governance. She is Founder and Consultant at Amplify People Advisors, a global C-suite executive with a Fortune 500 company, and holds multiple Board of Director positions. Barbara believes that organizations that proactively put policies in place to create safe and respectful interactions promote environments will improve productivity, engagement, retention, and ultimately financial performance. Tuning in, you’ll hear why DEI must not just be a moral imperative, but a business imperative, how talking about DEI can make you a better leader, colleague, and peer, and how to uncover your unconscious biases, as well as Barbara’a predictions for the future of these important conversations. Tune in today! Key Points From This Episode: Why paying attention to and taking action on DEI is important to your business. [00:03:13] Barbara explains why these conversations have come into the spotlight now. [00:05:23] The concept of allyship and the importance of making these issues relatable. [00:08:20] Learn how talking about DEI can inform you to be a better leader, peer, colleague. [00:11:51] What diversity and awareness actually mean: you truly see people and have compassion for their experiences. [00:13:48] How to uncover your unconscious biases; take the Harvard Implicit Bias Test. [00:16:13] Barbara explains the real function of biases and why it’s important to self-educate. [00:18:37] Some of the different strategies for addressing the unconscious biases of others. [00:21:04] Why it is important to lean into discomfort sometimes; don’t be driven by fear! [00:24:00] Barbara’s advice for asking someone what they meant by an offensive comment. [00:25:28] Why this is not about being “politically correct”:s it’s about being mindful of what you say if you care and diversity, equity, and inclusion. [00:26:25] Barbara’s predictions for the future of DEI includes years or decades of continuing this conversation. [00:28:03] Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: Barbara Polk on LinkedIn — Barbara Polk Email — Amplify People Advisors — Harvard Implicit Bias Test — Wordslut — How to Be an Inclusive Leader — ‘Blind Spots: Overcome stereotypes’ — ‘Blind Spots: Challenge assumptions’ — NAPO — NAPO on YouTube —
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