SkillDing -Learn by Doing

In this episode we take a deep dive with Aoife O'Brien, host of Happier at Work podcast, into Brendon Burchard's "High Performance Habits." Uncover the secrets behind all six habits that pave the way for personal and professional excellence.

1. Seek Clarity: High performers have a clear vision for their future and a strong understanding of their values and goals. They are able to make decisions that are aligned with their vision and goals, and they are not easily distracted by fleeting opportunities or setbacks.

2. Generate Energy: High performers have high levels of physical and mental energy. They are able to sustain their energy levels throughout the day, and they are able to push themselves through periods of challenge and adversity.

3. Raise Necessity: High performers believe that it is their responsibility to create their own success. They do not wait for opportunities to come to them; they actively seek out opportunities and create their own circumstances.

4. Increase Productivity: High performers are able to get things done. They are focused and efficient, and they are able to prioritize their tasks and manage their time effectively.

5. Develop Influence: High performers are able to connect with others and build relationships. They are able to persuade and inspire others, and they are able to build strong teams.

6. Demonstrate Courage: High performers are not afraid of taking risks. They are willing to step outside of their comfort zones and try new things, even if they are afraid of failure.

In this episode we talk to Graham Owens about the book "Tuesdays with Morrie". A memoir by Mitch Albom that tells the story of the author's former college professor, Morrie Schwartz, who is dying from ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig's disease). The book is divided into fourteen chapters, each covering a different topic of discussion between Mitch and Morrie.

Throughout the book, Morrie shares his wisdom on topics such as love, forgiveness, death, and the meaning of life. He emphasizes the importance of human connection and encourages readers to focus on the things that truly matter in life, rather than getting caught up in material possessions or social status.

Some of the most actionable content in the book includes:

1. Prioritize meaningful relationships: Morrie emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships with loved ones and making time for them, even in the midst of a busy life.
2. Cultivate a sense of gratitude: Morrie encourages readers to appreciate the simple things in life and to find joy in the present moment, rather than constantly striving for more.
3. Face your fears: Morrie advises readers to confront their fears and not let them hold them back from living a full and meaningful life.
4. Embrace vulnerability: Morrie shares his belief that vulnerability is a key aspect of human connection, and encourages readers to be open and honest with those around them.
5. Live with purpose: Morrie encourages readers to find their own sense of purpose and to live each day with intention and meaning.

About SkillDing.com

You and I listen to podcasts for many reasons and listening to a podcast like this probably means you are looking to get insights about human psychology, motivation, persuasion, things like that. If you are here to learn, listening is not enough. In fact, that will get you ⅓ of the way there. You will understand the topic, that's the first part. The second part is to remember the most actionable content when you need it, what we call the moment of truth. And thirdly you need to find opportunities to deliberately practice and reflect on that practice. This episode has a suite of learning tools that you can use to help you do this. Just go to SkillDing.com and search for the title of this episode.

Shane O'Mara on Substack: Brain Pizza

Get the book: here

We are social animals and talking is part of what makes us human.
But what purpose does conversation serve? In this revelatory tour of talking, neuroscientist Shane O'Mara explores why we communicate, what happens in our brains when we do it, and what it means for us as individuals, groups and societies.
How do our thoughts, memories, and conversations change our brains? What does it mean that we spend most of our thinking lives in a five-minute bubble around the present moment? Why does our sense of self solidify with age, even as we grow more forgetful? In what ways do we imagine futures together? And how do our nations begin as conversations?
Moving from the personal to the social and ultimately towards a radical new perspective on the defining phenomenon of our times, populist nationalism, this is the story of how conversation builds the worlds around us-and how, together, we can talk our way into a better tomorrow.

Every now and again you record an episode and completely forget that you are doing doing a podcast. You are so absorbed in what the guest is saying that it becomes a free lesson in life. This is one such episode.

A lot of people talk about how to be successful in your chosen arena. The sad truth is that sometimes these people are good at talking and not so good at delivering results.

That is not Mike Greene. He is the host of his own podcast 'Success is a System' and a Podcast Partner of ours here at SkillDing.com.

He wrote a book called Failure Breeds Success and he has lived every single one of the lessons in the book. In this episode we hear about how he went from being homeless at 4 years old to being a multimillionaire today.

My advice is to listen to every word Mike says.

The world of business is in constant change and the world of sales is evolving to keep up.

From the days of the power close through to solution and insight selling serious sales professionals constantly seek ways to improve. The modern sales person has a host of sales models to help them which this book sorts into Classic, Consultative, Value-Based and Enterprise selling.

Partnering Intelligence or ‘PQ’ is a means of understanding competence in using the system of behaviours that creates healthy, thriving relationships. Partnering skills can be measured and learned. Combine these with defined processes for implementing and guiding sales, and you have a repeatable formula for success.

Selling Through Partnering Skills uses the innovative VALUE Framework to bring these key elements together. In doing so it helps build the skillset required in today’s commercial environment. With an improved mindset and associated techniques sales people are now able to engage customers with a new finesse that can drive longer, stronger relationships.

About SkillDing.com

You and I listen to podcasts for many reasons and listening to a podcast like this probably means you are looking to get insights about human psychology, motivation, persuasion, things like that. If you are here to learn, listening is not enough. In fact, that will get you ⅓ of the way there. You will understand the topic, that's the first part. The second part is to remember the most actionable content when you need it, what we call the moment of truth. And thirdly you need to find opportunities to deliberately practice and reflect on that practice. This episode has a suite of learning tools that you can use to help you do this. Just go to SkillDing.com and search for the title of this episode.

We are talking to Professor Ian Robertson author of several books; 'The Stress Test', 'The Winner effect', 'The Mind's Eye' and 'Mind Sculpture'. In this episode we discuss his newest book 'How Confidence Works'. Steven Pinker called this book 'Interesting and Important'. Former Irish President Mary Robinson said it is 'A revelatory and practical new exploration of the science of confidence, which is important for everyone but crucial for women.'

In this episode we talk with Ben Belazi about the book "Talk Like TED". This book analyses some of the most successful TED talks to provide insights into the art of public speaking. The author, communication coach Carmine Gallo, emphasizes the importance of storytelling, authenticity, and passion in delivering a memorable presentation. He also highlights the significance of delivering a clear message, using visuals effectively, and engaging the audience through humour and emotional appeals.

The book breaks down the elements of a great TED talk into three main components: emotional connection, novel information, and memorable delivery. Here are some of the most actionable tips from each component:

1. Emotional Connection

• Share personal stories to create an emotional connection with the audience.
• Use humour to make the audience feel more relaxed and engaged.
• Use imagery and metaphors to help the audience connect with the content on a deeper level.

1. Novel Information

• Use data and facts to support your points and make them more credible.
• Use analogies to explain complex concepts in a simple and relatable way.
• Use stories of other people or events to illustrate your points and make them more compelling.

1. Memorable Delivery

• Use body language to convey confidence and enthusiasm.
• Speak in a conversational tone to make the audience feel like they are having a conversation with you.
• Use repetition and pause to emphasize important points and make them more memorable.

The book also includes real-world examples of successful TED talks, as well as interviews with some of the most popular TED speakers. These examples serve as a source of inspiration for anyone looking to improve their public speaking skills and deliver a powerful presentation.

"Talk Like TED" is a useful resource for anyone who wants to become a more effective communicator, whether they are preparing for a TED talk or simply giving a presentation at work or school.

About SkillDing.com

You and I listen to podcasts for many reasons and listening to a podcast like this probably means you are looking to get insights about human psychology, motivation, persuasion, things like that. If you are here to learn, listening is not enough. In fact, that will get you ⅓ of the way there. You will understand the topic, that's the first part. The second part is to remember the most actionable content when you need it, what we call the moment of truth. And thirdly you need to find opportunities to deliberately practice and reflect on that practice. This episode has a suite of learning tools that you can use to help you do this. Just go to SkillDing.com and search for the title of this episode.

The Art of the Impossible is a book by Steven Kotler, a writer and researcher specializing in neuroscience and peak performance. The book provides practical guidance on achieving "impossible" goals, drawing on insights from elite performers, neuroscientists, and psychologists.

Kotler argues that by applying the principles of "flow" - a state of optimal performance and heightened focus - individuals can push past their perceived limits and accomplish what they once thought was impossible. He emphasizes the importance of developing a growth mindset, setting clear goals, and adopting deliberate practice techniques.

Some of the most actionable content in the book includes:

1. The concept of "microflow" - breaking down a larger task into smaller, more manageable parts to maintain focus and motivation.
2. Identifying and leveraging one's strengths and natural abilities to achieve peak performance.
3. The importance of seeking out and learning from mentors and role models.
4. Cultivating a mindset of resilience and persistence, embracing failure as a necessary part of growth.
5. Engaging in deliberate practice, a focused and intentional approach to improving one's skills and abilities.

This book provides practical strategies and inspiration for individuals looking to achieve their most challenging goals, and is a valuable read for anyone interested in peak performance and personal development.

About SkillDing.com

You and I listen to podcasts for many reasons and listening to a podcast like this probably means you are looking to get insights about human psychology, motivation, persuasion, things like that. If you are here to learn, listening is not enough. In fact, that will get you ⅓ of the way there. You will understand the topic, that's the first part. The second part is to remember the most actionable content when you need it, what we call the moment of truth. And thirdly you need to find opportunities to deliberately practice and reflect on that practice. This episode has a suite of learning tools that you can use to help you do this. Just go to SkillDing.com and search for the title of this episode.

On this episode of the podcast we speak to Henry Stewart founder of Happy.co.uk. Their mission is straightforward. They want to create happy workplaces. Henry has written a book called 'Creating Joy at Work' with 501 tips for doing just that. A great episode with some really useful takeaways.

Hosted by Kevin Redmond (linkedin.com/KevinRedmondTraining) founder of SkillDing.com - a digital platform providing you with a suite of tools to measure and track when, where and how you are improving your soft skills. In each episode we have a guest on to discuss a non fiction book that has impacted their life. Every episode includes these tools to enable you remember the most actionable content from the episode and to allow you to find opportunities to deliberately practice and reflect on your efforts.

About ⁠SkillDing.com⁠

You and I listen to podcasts for many reasons and listening to a podcast like this probably means you are looking to get insights about human psychology, motivation, persuasion, things like that. If you are here to learn, listening is not enough. In fact, that will get you ⅓ of the way there. You will understand the topic, that's the first part. The second part is to remember the most actionable content when you need it, what we call the moment of truth. And thirdly you need to find opportunities to deliberately practice and reflect on that practice. This episode has a suite of learning tools that you can use to help you do this. Just go to ⁠SkillDing.com⁠ and search for the title of this episode.

Former CEO of Siemens, and current regional director of SWARCO, Gary O'Callaghan joins us in this episode to discuss how the book Good to Great influenced his leadership style. This is a book we have covered previously but to get a different perspective on how someone else has used its lessons is invaluable.