Productivity Smarts

• Productivity Smarts 097 - BE THE WEIGHT BEHIND THE SPEAR with Dr. Josh McConkey

  Leadership isn’t built in boardrooms—it’s forged in the ER, on combat missions, and in the quiet moments when no one’s watching. In this high-impact episode of Productivity Smarts, host Gerald J. Leonard sits down with Dr. Josh McConkey—emergency physician, U.S. Army Colonel, and author of Be the Weight Behind the Spear. Drawing from 23 years of military leadership and frontline medicine, Dr. McConkey reveals how his "weight behind the spear" philosophy can transform passive contributors into high-performance leaders, even in chaotic environments. From harrowing Iraq war stories to the ER’s opioid crisis frontline, Dr. McConkey shares riveting lessons on accountability, resilience, and adaptive leadership. Discover why NASA’s 26-year-old mission controller succeeded (and what today’s leaders can learn from it), how to replace micromanagement with ownership, and why "complacency kills" in business and life. Packed with raw anecdotes and actionable frameworks, this episode is a masterclass in leading with purpose—whether you’re steering a team, a family, or your own career.   What We Discuss [00:05] Introduction to Dr. Josh McConkey [07:00] Leadership ethos explained [09:03] Productivity mindset shift [10:41] Youth confidence and leadership [11:45] The space race analogy [13:14] The story of Stephen Bales [18:04] Mental health crisis and impact of drug addiction [20:22] Hidden productivity killers [23:08] Focus on solutions [25:51] Adapting to change [27:32] AI in medicine [29:01] Learning more about Dr. McConkey   Notable Quotes [4:58] "If you're not making a difference, then you're wasting your time." — Dr. Josh McConkey   [7:00] "Be the Weight behind the Spear. That's my personal leadership ethos... That tip of the spear means nothing if you don't have a significant weight in those people behind you." — Dr. Josh McConkey   [16:58] "Standards, not rules. I give my intent, this is what I need to happen for us to be successful... If you're having to micromanage somebody, then you probably make another decision." — Dr. Josh McConkey   [25:51] "Complacency kills. It kills in business. It kills on the battlefield... You have to find a way to adapt and overcome." — Dr. Colonel Joshua McConkey   Resources Dr. Josh McConkey Website: https://www.joshmcconkey.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSQ7OpDAy4hr3doGNtqwtcA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-mcconkey-md/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoshMcConkeyForCongress Book: Be The Weight Behind The Spear Productivity Smarts Podcast Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com Gerald J. Leonard Website - geraldjleonard.com Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard   Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds  

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• Productivity Smarts 096 - The Secrets of Self-Hypnosis with Dr. Lisa Zaretsky

  What if you could access a powerful tool to reprogram your mind, overcome self-doubt, and break free from the invisible barriers holding you back? In this episode of Productivity Smarts , host Gerald J. Leonard welcomes back a familiar voice—Dr. Lisa Zaretsky, a returning guest from Episode 69 and a renowned expert in hypnotherapy. This time, Dr. Lisa joins Gerald to discuss her new book, The Secrets of Self-Hypnosis, which unlocks the transformative power of self-hypnosis for personal and professional growth. Dr. Lisa shares insights from her groundbreaking Hypnotherapy Coaching Program, which boasts an impressive 95% success rate in helping individuals overcome challenges ranging from limiting beliefs and career obstacles to emotional blocks and financial struggles. Her book dives into practical tools and techniques, empowering listeners to take control of their subconscious mind and rewire it for success. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Lisa explains how self-hypnosis can help address deep-seated beliefs formed early in life, offering a three-part framework: induction, reframing, and transition. She emphasizes the importance of intention setting, consistency, and crafting personalized scripts to create lasting change. Listeners will also discover how small daily practices—even just five minutes a day—can lead to profound transformations in productivity, mindset, and overall well-being. This episode is packed with real-world applications and inspiring stories, making it a must-listen for anyone ready to take control of their subconscious mind and elevate their potential. Tune in now to discover how self-hypnosis can help you break free from self-imposed limitations and achieve your goals with clarity, confidence, and purpose. What We Discuss [00:00] Introduction to Dr. Lisa Zaretsky [03:39] Overview of Dr. Lisa's book [04:48] Hypnotherapy Coaching Program [06:05] Addressing subconscious beliefs [09:27] Self-hypnosis techniques [11:43] Three-part framework of self-hypnosis [12:46] Induction process explained [13:55] Setting intentions [19:12] Recording self-hypnosis scripts [20:35] Understanding limiting beliefs [21:49] Understanding subconscious beliefs [22:31] Conscious awareness and addressing beliefs [22:50] Self-hypnosis vs. regression [23:41] Personal goal setting experience [25:08] The beauty of continuous growth [25:19] Impact of self-hypnosis on resilience [26:02] Recording self-reflections [27:07] Bypassing conscious resistance [27:25] Setting intentions for follow-through [28:11] Reframing beliefs with affirmations [29:35] Letting go of outcome attachment [37:12] Conclusion and final thoughts Notable Quotes [00:06:05] “Your subconscious is 95% of your operating system, and we think that we're operating from our conscious mind, but it's only 5%.” – Dr. Lisa Zaretsky [00:14:46] “When you set your intentions, you have to be intentional and mindful, but you also want that stream of consciousness to come out as well because that's going to tell you where you truly, authentically want to go.” – Dr. Lisa Zaretsky [00:23:41] “I feel like I can't start my day unless I write down one of the five things I'm grateful for.” – Gerald J. Leonard Resources Mentioned Episode 69 Dr. Lisa Zaretsky Website: https://www.drlisazaretsky.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlisazaretsky/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisa.zaretsky.7?mibextid=ZbWKwL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlisazaretsky/ Book: The Secrets of Self-Hypnosis Productivity Smarts Podcast Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com Gerald J. Leonard Website - geraldjleonard.com Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds  

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• Productivity Smarts 095 - Bragg and Increase Your Productivity with Dr. Winifred Bragg

  Ever feel like you’re running in circles—busy but not truly productive? Or maybe that nagging voice in your head whispers, "You’re not good enough," no matter how much you achieve?  In this episode of Productivity Smarts, Gerald talks with Dr. Winifred Bragg—a nationally recognized speaker, board-certified physician, and creator of The Bragg Factor—to tackle these challenges head-on. Dr. Bragg shares her transformative approach to productivity, starting with her signature Bragg Factor model. She breaks down how to rewire your brain (using tools like the reticular activating system) to focus on what truly matters, plus practical ways to ditch stress and imposter syndrome for good. And don’t miss her genius hack: the Brag Book, a simple but powerful tool to track your wins and finally give yourself the credit you deserve. But this isn’t just about checklists and hustle. Dr. Bragg opens up about the deeper stuff—like why mentorship and resilience are non-negotiables for success, and how volunteering (yes, even when you’re swamped) can unexpectedly fuel your growth. Whether you’re craving more productivity, joy, or just proof that you’re already crushing it, this conversation is packed with real-world strategies to help you thrive. Tune in and discover how small shifts can lead to big, life-changing results. What We Discuss [00:00:00] Introduction to Dr. Winifred Bragg [00:04:31] The importance of goals and mentorship [00:06:41] Creating a brag book [00:07:43] The reticular activating system [00:09:13] Imposter syndrome and self-doubt [00:10:16] Brain training for positive outcomes [00:14:41] Practical steps for using a brag book [00:16:46] The value of volunteering [00:19:11] Addressing overwhelm and stress [00:20:59] The essence of productivity [00:21:25] Gratitude and goal setting [00:21:39] Strategic productivity tools [00:22:51] Understanding the BRAG framework [00:24:07] The importance of team recognition [00:27:07] Where to find Dr. Bragg [00:29:21] Closing thoughts Notable Quotes [00:03:30] “I like to bring happiness to people who are dealing with pain, and when I'm speaking, people come to me sometimes because they are going through a pain of loss of a career or finances or whatever.” – Dr. Winifred Bragg [00:07:48] “When you write down your accomplishments, you remind yourself, 'I did that, I can do this,' and the book is an action step book that allows you to be active and write that down so you are reminded of the good about you.” – Dr. Winifred Bragg [00:19:11] “The burnout and all that is real, and what I tell people is to develop something that makes them happy. Think about something that brings you joy and spend some time with your family or friends to bring you joy.” – Dr. Winifred Bragggg [00:21:25] “What I've found in my own life is that by writing out my goals and writing out what I'm grateful for every day, it programs me to bring into my life the things that I'm looking for and things that I want.” – Gerald J. Leonard [00:24:07] “People are burned out and so many people get criticism but never get compliments. Just saying something good about them will give you so much mileage.” – Dr. Winifred Bragg Resources Dr. Winifred Bragg Website: https://thebraggfactor.com/ Books https://thebraggfactor.com/books/ Productivity Smarts Podcast Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com Gerald J. Leonard Website - geraldjleonard.com Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds  

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• Productivity Smarts 094 - Lies I Taught in Medical School with Robert Lufkin MD

  What if everything you thought you knew about health was wrong?   In this eye-opening episode of Productivity Smarts, host Gerald J. Leonard sits down with Dr. Robert Lufkin—renowned metabolic health and longevity expert—to challenge some of the most deeply held beliefs in Western medicine. Drawing from his provocative book The Lies I Taught in Medical School, Dr. Lufkin shares how curiosity, courage, and a willingness to question the status quo have shaped his transformative journey.   Together, they uncover surprising truths about the power of lifestyle choices, from the hidden dangers of everyday mouthwash to the life-changing potential of the ketogenic diet. Dr. Lufkin reveals why metabolic health is the foundation for longevity, how small early interventions can prevent chronic disease, and what practical steps you can take to boost performance, energy, and well-being.   Whether you're optimizing your productivity or rethinking your approach to health, this episode offers a fresh perspective—and actionable insights—you won't want to miss.   What We Discuss [00:00] Introduction to Dr. Robert Lufkin [04:26] The Lies Taught in Medical School [08:20] Simple Lifestyle Changes to Reverse Chronic Diseases [17:03] The Obesity Lie and Metabolic Health [22:04] The Queen Metaphor [22:58] Ketogenic Diet and Mental Health [28:01] Hypertension and Modern Stress [35:13] The Truth About Cardiovascular Disease [38:28] Longevity and Chronic Diseases [43:06] Conclusion and Final Thoughts Notable Quotes [00:07:55] “ The world as we see it is constantly changing, at least our perspective of it and having that open mind, that learner's mind, that beginner's mind, as the zen people say is really a powerful tool.” – Robert   [00:14:41] “ Even though I'm a doctor, I realize, doctors don't make me healthy. I go to a doctor to become less sick. If I wanna become healthy, that's on me. And that's with lifestyle. And lifestyle is something no doctor can do for me.” – Robert     [00:21:28] “ Just a little bit of the right knowledge will kind of help change your motivation.” – Gerald   Resources Robert Lufkin, MD Website: https://www.robertlufkinmd.com/ Book: Lies I Taught in Medical School: How Conventional Medicine Is Making You Sicker and What You Can Do to Save Your Own Life   Productivity Smarts Podcast Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com   Gerald J. Leonard Website - geraldjleonard.com Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds  

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• Productivity Smarts 093 - Sonny’s Piano Yoga with Sonny Strancarone

  Music could be your ultimate stress-relief tool, creativity booster, and productivity hack—all rolled into one. And no, this isn’t about becoming the next concert pianist or mastering complex sonatas. It’s about something simpler, more accessible, and honestly, way more fun: Piano Yoga.   In this episode of Productivity Smarts, Gerald J. Leonard sits down with Sonny Strancarone, CEO of Sonny's Piano and author of Sonny's Piano Yoga. Together, they dive into the fascinating intersection of music, mindfulness, and productivity. You’ll learn about the transformative power of music—not just as an art form, but as a tool for personal and professional growth. Sonny introduces his "20-minute rule" for achieving a meditative state through music practice and explores the unique emotional connections that human creativity fosters, especially in contrast to artificial intelligence. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced musician, Sonny offers practical resources and a refreshingly joyful approach to learning music.   Listen now and start your Piano Yoga journey! What We Discuss [00:00] Introduction to Sonny [08:38] Mindfulness in music   [11:02] Musical learning vs. theory   [12:02] Sonny's teaching method   [15:04] Non-traditional music education   [18:08] The art of the muse   [20:15] Flow state in music   [23:47] The importance of arts in education   [25:06] Creativity as a biological function   [27:04] Historical figures and creativity   [28:43] Art and productivity connection   [29:47] The 20 minute rule [31:26] Human creativity vs. AI [32:37] Lessons from Sonny and embracing joy in playing [36:08] Closing remarks Notable Quotes [00:04:24] “I thought this was a jazz room, and improvisation is what jazz is about.” – Sonny   [00:07:32] “There is no such thing as a mistake, only a new opportunity to play the song differently.” – Sonny   [00:08:38] “Music has such a big role, and I think that's why I was encouraged by your book because it really teaches adults how to embrace an instrument and fall in love with playing music.” – Gerald J. Leonard   [00:20:15] “As a musician, learning to practice and get into a flow state when I'm playing transitions into my professional life. It helps me harness that flow state in business, meditation, and yoga.” – Sonny [00:23:47] “I think it's a crime that schools remove the arts and music when they have budget cuts. They take away a level of thought process and development that children and adults really need.” – Sonny [00:29:15] “As soon as you sit down at the instrument, you step out of your world of stress. You start to absorb your brain, get into dopamine, and elevate your energy level.” – Sonny Resources Sonny Strancarone Website: https://www.sonnyspianoyoga.com/ Book: Sonny’s Piano Yoga Productivity Smarts Podcast Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com Gerald J. Leonard Website - geraldjleonard.com Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds  

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