Episodios

  • Why Optimization Isn’t the Answer (and How to Make the Most of the Four Thousand Weeks We Have) | with Oliver Burkeman

    Why Optimization Isn’t the Answer (and How to Make the Most of the Four Thousand Weeks We Have) | with Oliver Burkeman
    Apr 30 2025
    What if striving for more is actually giving you… less?In this episode, Zack sits down with bestselling author Oliver Burkeman—known for Four Thousand Weeks and Meditations for Mortals—to unpack the trap of productivity and the illusion of the perfect to-do list. Together, they explore why the constant chase for achievement might be keeping us from truly living, and how embracing the unfinished parts of life could actually set us free.Key TakeawaysAccept the kind of defeat that grounds you: Not as resignation, but as clarity, so you can move forward more empowered, relaxed, and effective.Embrace imperfectionism: Accept that you’ll never have full knowledge or control, and move forward anyway, knowing you’re always learning and evolving.Ask what life is asking of you now: Not in terms of destiny or perfection, but in terms of what is actually doable in your current reality.Episode HighlightsThe impact of the book Four Thousand Weeks on time managementRethinking self-optimization and unlocking your creative potentialThe liberation of letting go of impossible goalsOvercoming imposter syndrome: Why waiting to feel ready is holding you backWork-Life Balance vs Strategic Imbalance and Work-Life IntegrationImperfectionism and the Kayak vs. Super Yacht ApproachThe difference between efficiency and effectivenessDefining life tasks and personal valuesAcceptance, grief and mortality: Dealing with life's limitationsThe power of embracing oneselfRecommended Next EpisodeGreg McKeown, Laura Vanderkam, Nir Eyal: To learn more about how to better manage your time and alignment with your valuesZack’s Substack Article: If you’re interested in learning more about why we often don't do the things that we know we should be doingUseful ResourcesOliver’s Book: Four Thousand WeeksOliver’s Book: Meditation for MortalsOliver’s Book: The AntidoteThe Courage to be DislikedCarl JungBruce TiftWant to Hear More Episodes Like This One?» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episodeGuest BioOliver Burkeman is the New York Times and UK Sunday Times bestselling author of Four Thousand Weeks, about embracing limitation and finally getting round to what counts, and of the newly released Meditations for Mortals: Four Weeks to Embrace Your Limitations and Make Time for What Counts. His other books are The Antidote: Happiness for People Who Can't Stand Positive Thinking and Help! How to Become Slightly Happier and Get a Bit More Done. For many years he wrote a popular column for the Guardian, 'This Column Will Change Your Life'. In his email newsletter The Imperfectionist, he writes about productivity, mortality, the power of limits and building a meaningful life in an age of distraction. After a decade in Brooklyn, he now lives in the North York Moors in England.Oliver’s Website, NewsletterShow CreditsEdited by: Curtis FritschProduced by: Debby GerminoShownotes and published by: Vim PangantihonMusic by: Thomas CepedaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content
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    1 h y 21 m
  • Why the Relentless Pursuit of Optimization Is a Journey to Nowhere | with Zack Arnold

    Why the Relentless Pursuit of Optimization Is a Journey to Nowhere | with Zack Arnold
    Apr 30 2025

    Are you stuck in the messy middle of life, wondering who you’re becoming on the other side?

    In this episode, the mic turns inward as today’s guest—well, it’s me, Zack Arnold —and I’m opening up about the newly rebranded Zack Arnold Podcast. Along with my podcast producer and fellow coach Debby Germino, we discuss why the changes go far beyond a new name, music, or artwork. Together, we dig into what’s shifting behind the scenes and the deeper purpose driving this evolution—not just for us, but for anyone navigating their own transformation.

    Key Takeaways
    • Purpose is the Key to Happiness: Connect your efforts to a purpose larger than personal success and let go of the toxic version of 'optimization' pushed by hustle culture.
    • Make People Feel Something: Focus on how you make people feel, not just what you say or do to create an emotional connection and leave a deeper impact.
    • Embrace the Unknown: We’re never starting over from scratch. We can always learn from past experiences and apply them to any new situation.
    Episode Highlights
    • Why rebranding was necessary
    • What led to the change and how it took shape
    • Lessons from past rebrand: Fitness in Post to Optimize
    • Speaking to the emotional heart of the rebrand
    • Introducing the new Substack and vision behind it
    • Understanding your purpose and its role in success
    • From providing education to a building community
    • What this rebrand mean for the existing community
    • Embracing the new Creator economy
    • The Summit
    • Burnout prevention and protecting healthy habits
    • What’s next for the Zack Arnold Podcast
    • Final thoughts and how to stay connected
    Recommended Next Episode

    Oliver Burkeman: To dive deeper into what inspired our rebrand—and how I now approach goals, time, and priorities.

    Useful Resources

    Zack Arnold Podcast

    Zack Arnold’s Substack: Pivot with Purpose

    Oliver Burkeman’s Book: Four Thousand Weeks Time Management for Mortals

    Viktor Frankl’s Book: Man's Search for Meaning

    Scott Barry Kaufman’s Beautiful Minds Newsletter

    Andy J. Pizza’s Podcast: Creative Pep Talk

    Show Credits

    Edited by: Curtis Fritsch

    Produced by: Debby Germino

    Shownotes and published by: Vim Pangantihon

    Music by: Thomas Cepeda



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content
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    1 h y 29 m
  • I wasn't afraid of losing my paycheck nearly as much as losing myself. (3 of 3)

    I wasn't afraid of losing my paycheck nearly as much as losing myself. (3 of 3)
    Apr 25 2025

    Hey there, it's Zack. And for today's mini episode, I'd like to share with you an audio reading of a recent article that I wrote on Substack titled, I wasn't afraid of losing my paycheck nearly as much as losing myself. If you enjoy this article and you're interested in reading more about navigating significant life transitions, finding meaning in your creative work, and what it means to be human in the age of AI. I invite you to subscribe to my Substack newsletter, Pivot with Purpose. To learn more and subscribe visit zackarnold.com/substack.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content
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    8 m
  • I sold my soul for a paycheck. It led me to my purpose instead. (2 of 3)

    I sold my soul for a paycheck. It led me to my purpose instead. (2 of 3)
    Apr 24 2025

    Hey there, it's Zack. And for today's mini episode, I'd like to share with you an audio reading of a recent article that I wrote on Substack titled, I sold my soul for a paycheck. It led me to my purpose instead. If you enjoy this article and you're interested in reading more about navigating significant life transitions, finding meaning in your creative work, and what it means to be human in the age of AI. I invite you to subscribe to my Substack newsletter, Pivot with Purpose. To learn more and subscribe visit zackarnold.com/substack.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content
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    7 m
  • The existential crisis that destroyed me, then changed my life. (1 of 3)

    The existential crisis that destroyed me, then changed my life. (1 of 3)
    Apr 23 2025

    Hey there, it's Zack. And for today's mini episode, I'd like to share with you an audio reading of a recent article that I wrote on Substack titled, The existential crisis that destroyed me and then changed my life. If you enjoyed this article and you're interested in reading more about navigating significant life transitions, finding meaning in your creative work, and what it means to be human in the age of AI, I invite you to subscribe to my Substack newsletter, Pivot with Purpose. To learn more and subscribe visit zackarnold.com/substack



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content
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    7 m
  • Coming Soon: The Zack Arnold Podcast

    Coming Soon: The Zack Arnold Podcast
    Apr 2 2025

    If you’ve been following along the last several months, then you may already know I’ve decided that it’s time to retire the Optimize Yourself brand and usher in a new era.

    If you live to create, meaning your work isn't just a job but an expression of who you are...

    If you create to live, as in your livelihood depends on your creativity...

    And if you love making cool shit (preferably left alone in small, dark rooms)...

    You’ll love the Zack Arnold podcast. Keep an eye out for new episodes coming soon.



    Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/zackarnold/exclusive-content
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    2 m
  • How to Pivot, Adapt, and Keep Going (Your Creative Career Isn't Over) | with Lydia Hurlbut

    How to Pivot, Adapt, and Keep Going (Your Creative Career Isn't Over) | with Lydia Hurlbut
    Mar 20 2025
    Want to continue learning from the world’s experts on time management, networking, career development, better sleep, overcoming burnout, and so much more?→ Click here for your customized podcast playlistEver feel like the ground beneath your career is shifting — like every step forward only leads to more uncertainty? Today, we're diving deep into the heart of creative survival during one of the most challenging periods for creatives in history.In this episode, I sit down with Lydia Hurlbut, a transformational business strategist who has defied the odds through a series of unexpected career pivots — from pediatric nursing to forensic investigation, from coaching to filmmaking. Lydia is not just a survivor of career pivots—she's mastered them, turning every uncertainty into opportunity.In our conversation, Lydia offers actionable insights to help you carve a new path forward, even when it feels like all doors are closing. We explore how to manage the emotional toll of career shifts, identify the transferable skills you might be overlooking, and find your center amidst the uncertainty. By tapping into your true potential, you’ll learn how to transform career chaos into opportunity with clarity and purpose.If you’re exhausted from feeling stuck and ready to regain control of your career, this conversation is your invitation to rethink what’s possible.Want to Hear More Episodes Like This One?» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episode Here's What You'll Learn:The impact of the huge retraction in entertainment industry jobs and opportunitiesHow self-care and paying attention to your body's signals can transform your well-being.KEY TAKEAWAY: Embrace imperfection while staying centeredNavigating career pivots and finding your specific transferable skillsLydia’s fascinating story of her many diverse career transitionsHow to make wise, thoughtful moves to maintain financial stability during career pivotsHow a former actor transitioned from shooting regional marketplace videos to creating multiple income streamsKEY TAKEAWAY: Listen to what people needManaging emotions and practicing self-care routinesRecognizing and breaking free from chronic stress (before it takes a toll on your health)What to do when your emotions are in the driver’s seatKEY TAKEAWAY: Trauma is a way to know yourself better.Channeled writing and walking meditation—your ultimate power tools for self-discovery.Why health hacks and the quick fixes may be deceiving youReiki energy healing and managing spiritual crisisKEY TAKEAWAY: What we focus on growsUseful Resources Mentioned:Filmmakers Academy (Type LYDIA20 during checkout to get $20 off when you join)Reiki Energy HealingThe Artist’s WayOvercoming “The Paycheck Paradox” (so you can make a living doing what you love)Continue to Listen & Learn[Case Study] From the FBI to Hollywood: Anatomy of An Unlikely Career Pivot | with Kathy RobinsonHow Having a ‘Side Hustle’ Buys You the Freedom to Say ‘No’ | with Alex FerrariNavigating The ‘Messy Middle’ of Life & Career Transitions | with Melissa Costello[CASE STUDY] How to Diversify Your Creative Skills and Experience to Build Multiple Income Streams | with Krysia SzyszloHow to Transition From ‘Technician’ to ‘Entrepreneur’ | Mastermind Q&A with Misha TenenbaumNavigating the Messy Middle of a Career Pivot | with Sandy ZimmermanThe Art of the Pivot: Going From Freelancer to Entrepreneur | with Nick MiloHow to Be a Multi-Hyphenate Creative and be the CEO of Your Creative Career | with Nelson Paredez-ParksHow to Reinvent Yourself, Pursue Your Dreams, and Change Careers at Any Age | with Marcelo LewinHow to Future-Proof Your Creative Career, Avoid Burnout, and Build a Life Bigger Than Your Résumé | with Christina Wallace[CASE STUDY] How to Make the Most of Slow Work Periods and Make a Career Pivot | with Malinda Zehner GuerraRamit Sethi on Forging The Path Towards Your Own ‘Rich Life’How to Provide Value & Get Paid What You’re Worth | Mastermind Q&A with Monica DanielGuest Bio: Lydia Hurlbut Lydia Hurlbut is a Transformational Business Strategist and Co-Founder of Filmmakers Academy. With over 35 years of experience spanning healthcare, forensics, wellness, and business, Lydia Hurlbut is a catalyst for change in mindset consciousness and holistic leadership. Her journey from pediatric nurse to transformational coach was shaped by a life-altering health crisis, inspiring her to champion self-care integration in professional life. Co-creating Filmmakers Academy, Lydia blends her medical background, business strategy, intuition and Reiki skills to offer unique coaching programs. As a sought-after speaker and writer, she empowers individuals to overcome personal and business blocks, aligning actions with their highest potential. Lydia's innovative approach helps clients achieve sustainable personal and financial success, making her a transformative force in the entertainment industry.Show ...
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    1 h y 25 m
  • From Setback to Comeback: Finding Strength in the Hardest Moments | with Bevin Farrand

    From Setback to Comeback: Finding Strength in the Hardest Moments | with Bevin Farrand
    Mar 14 2025
    Want to continue learning from the world’s experts on time management, networking, career development, better sleep, overcoming burnout, and so much more?→ Click here for your customized podcast playlistWith everything that’s happened in the past few years—and the latest tragedies that have shaken the entertainment industry—it’s no surprise that many of us feel stuck, are questioning what’s next or even questioning what the point of it all is.In this episode, I sit down with Bevin Farrand, speaker, coach, author, and founder of the Take the DAMN Chance movement. Bevin knows firsthand what it means to navigate profound loss—after enduring a series of tragedies, one event ultimately turned her life upside down. This led her to develop what she calls the DAMN framework to help others move forward during difficult times. Together, we explore how to face hardship without getting stuck in it. We talk about what it really means to acknowledge grief and uncertainty, why toxic positivity can do more harm than good, and the first steps to take when you feel paralyzed by everything happening around you.Bevin also introduces the DAMN Manifesto—an anchor to help you regain clarity and direction when everything feels uncertain. Her approach isn’t just about vague motivation but real, actionable steps to help you break free from stagnation and start moving forward, even when it feels impossible.If you’re struggling to find your footing in the midst of uncertainty, this conversation with Bevin offers a fresh perspective on how to move forward, even in the hardest of times.Want to Hear More Episodes Like This One?» Click here to subscribe and never miss another episode Here's What You'll Learn:The events that led Bevin to the Take the DAMN Chance movementHow Bevin created the DAMN frameworkWhy it’s not always a good idea to think that bad things happen for a good reasonKEY TAKEAWAY: It’s okay to respond with sadness and griefKEY TAKEAWAY: Responses can shiftHow toxic positivity can get us stuckThe common mistake when talking to someone who’s having a difficult time and what to say insteadHow to move forward when you’re trapped in uncertainty and anxietyThe difference between fear and anxiety and how fear can be usefulWhat is the “pad method” to get out of anxietyWhy you need multiple “why’s”Bevin takes the Hot Seat to go deep into her origin storyKEY TAKEAWAY: There is no evidence to support that you "will never get through this."Why fighting reality can cause more sufferingHow people get stuck even after figuring out what they wantWhy you can’t wait for confidence or inspiration to take actionWhat is the DAMN manifesto and how it can help us push through when things get difficultUseful Resources Mentioned:"Your DAMN Manifesto": Free Book to Achieve Bold Dreams and Live IntentionallyMan’s Search for Meaning | Viktor FranklThe Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference | Malcolm GladwellHow Regular Movement Makes You Smarter | with Dr. John RateySpark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain | Dr. John RateyBevin Farrand | Free Meditation to Combat Anxiety and OverwhelmContinue to Listen & LearnHow to Keep Moving Forwards After You’ve Lost Everything | with Christina RasmussenOvercoming the Grief of “Invisible Losses” (Including Losing Your Job), and Getting Out of “Survival Mode” | with Christina RasmussenThe Ugly Truth About Burnout (Even When You’re Unemployed), and How to Build Immunity From It | with Dr. Kandi WiensThe Ugly Side of Depression, Burnout, and Imposter Syndrome | with Gen MaloneReal Talk About Mental Health and Depression | with Michael KammesUnemployed? Burned Out? Or Both? How to Manage a Career Break | with Laura NguyenHow to Become Resilient In the Face of Change (and Manage an Identity Crisis) | with Brad StulbergPushing Yourself to Your Limits (When Quitting isn’t an Option) | with Evan PerperisHow Tiny Changes Can Create Remarkable Results | with James ClearFeeling Lost? It’s Time to ‘Find Your Why’ | with David MeadFind Your Creativity by Finding Your Why | with Dr. Mark ShrimeGuest Bio: Bevin Farrand Bevin Farrand is an executive coach, brand strategist, and creator of the Do the DAMN Thing Method.In 2019, after an unexpected loss just 5 days after she returned from a whirlwind trip to France with her husband, Bevin Farrand founded the Take the DAMN Chance movement. Her DAMN framework has inspired thousands to connect with the people that they love, do the “crazy thing” that makes all the difference and, when given a choice, to take the damn chance. Additionally, she is a coach that supports entrepreneurs in growing their business to 5-, 6-, and 7- figures, and women in achieving their goals, even after going through deeply challenging experiences.Show Credits:This episode was edited by Curtis Fritsch, and the show notes were prepared by Debby Germino and published by Glen McNiel.The ...
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    1 h y 25 m
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