In this episode, Dr. Ayers speaks to his younger self about becoming more efficient and intentional with time. He focuses on two productivity tools that dramatically improve a safety professional’s effectiveness: time blocking and the golden hour.
Protecting specific chunks of the day for focused work
Reducing distractions and task‑switching
Ensuring important safety tasks (inspections, coaching, planning) actually get done
The first hour of the day is the most powerful
Use it for high‑value, strategic work—not email or firefighting
Sets the tone for the entire day
Efficiency isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing the right things at the right time
Discipline with your calendar leads to better leadership, clearer thinking, and stronger safety outcomes
Safety leaders who own their schedule gain the clarity and bandwidth needed to lead proactively instead of reactively.
