In this episode of A Productive Conversation, I sit down with Kerry Ann King, the founder and CEO of Eluminate Labs. Kerry Ann has spent more than a decade working inside the tech industry to promote human-centered approaches to well-being. She’s now leading the charge in decolonizing tech, creating inclusive solutions that put people first.

Our conversation explores the transactional nature of productivity, the intersection of art and work, and how we can break free from extractive approaches to time management. Kerry Ann shares insights on how we can shift away from the pressure to do more and instead focus on creating real impact. We also dive into Fin, a positive productivity app from Eluminate Labs designed to help users better understand their productivity style.

Key Discussion Points

• Why productivity shouldn’t be about extraction but about meaningful impact.
• The difference between transactional productivity and relational productivity.
• How the arts can teach us about persistence, focus, and creativity.
• The tension between structure and flexibility in how we measure progress.
• The role of intention in both personal and professional work.
• The story behind Fin and how it helps people uncover their productivity style.
• The importance of recognizing that different seasons of life require different productivity approaches.

This conversation challenges conventional productivity narratives and offers a refreshing take on how we can work with intention rather than just efficiency.

Links Worth Exploring

• Connect with Kerry Ann: Website | LinkedIn
• Check out Fin: Click here
• Rick Rubin's book: The Creative Act: A Way of Being
• Watch what John Cena's (other) watch said
• Related Conversation: Episode 511: Francesco D’Alessio Talks About Innovative Productivity Apps and Methodologies
• Related Blog Post: Focus On The App Within

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Thanks again for listening to A Productive Conversation. See you later.

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If you’re looking to build a sustainable, personalized productivity practice that actually sticks, my latest book is for you. It’s available now—wherever books are sold. Learn more at mikevardy.com/lit or request it at your favorite local bookstore.