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Chris Bailey
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The Copper Connection Podcast
Paperwork on Site: The Hidden Power of Construction Documents for Apprentices
On real construction sites, paperwork runs the job—but most students and apprentices never get it properly explained. In this episode of The Copper Connection Podcast, host Chris Bailey breaks down the key documents used in construction projects in a clear, no-jargon way designed for plumbing and building services learners.You’ll learn how take-off sheets turn drawings into material lists, why contracts and schedules of rates matter for your pay and workload, the real difference between estimates and quotes, and how delivery notes, purchase orders, bills of quantities, and wiring diagrams keep projects on track. Chri...
2025-11-30
15 min
The Copper Connection Podcast
Retrofit, Renewables and Real Work: Sustainability for T Level Building Services Students
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword – it’s shaping the future of plumbing, building services, and construction careers across the UK. In this episode of The Copper Connection Podcast, host Chris Bailey breaks down what sustainability really means for students, apprentices, and anyone working towards T Levels and technical qualifications in the built environment.You’ll learn how construction contributes to UK carbon emissions, why space and hot water heating are such big players, and how smarter design, planning and site practices can transform the way we build. We unpack key concepts like sustainable construction, protecting the natu...
2025-11-30
19 min
The Copper Connection Podcast
How the Construction Supply Chain Works: Essential Knowledge for Trade Students & Apprentices
Struggling to understand how construction projects actually come together? In Episode 21 of The Copper Connection Podcast, host Chris Bailey breaks down supply chain integration in construction—and why it matters for every plumbing and construction apprentice.Learn who the key players are in any building project, from clients and architects to sub-contractors and suppliers. Discover how effective planning, communication, and collaboration prevent costly delays, site chaos, and damaged reputations. Chris shares real-world stories, practical examples, and explains how understanding the supply chain makes you a better tradesperson—whether you're studying for your T-Level, NVQ, or working on s...
2025-11-16
12 min
The Copper Connection Podcast
The Whole Building Concept Explained: Life Cycle Assessment for Plumbing & Construction Students
In Episode 20 of The Copper Connection Podcast, host Chris Bailey breaks down the complete building life cycle – from raw materials to demolition and recycling. Perfect for plumbing students, construction apprentices, and anyone studying T Level Building Services Engineering qualifications.You'll learn:✅ What the whole building concept means and why it matters for your career✅ How life cycle assessment (LCA) impacts every construction project✅ Practical ways to recycle, repurpose, and reuse building materials on site✅ Why metals like copper, steel, and lead are sustainability superstars✅ UK environmental legislation...
2025-11-16
15 min
Chris Bailey
Podcast 159: Waking Up Early
On this episode, we chat about Chris’s experiment to wake up at 5:30 every morning for a month—including what he learned from it, what he’d do differently, and what the research says about our wakeup time and daily productivity. We also dig into his experiment to drink only water for a month—cutting out sugary drinks, caffeine, and booze. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast 159: Waking Up Early appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2025-11-11
35 min
Time and Attention
159: Waking Up Early
What Chris learned waking up at 5:30 every morning—and our thoughts on waking up early. The post Podcast 159: Waking Up Early appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2025-11-11
35 min
The Copper Connection Podcast
Design Principles Part 2 - Modern Construction Methods, Building Regulations & Sustainable Design
The Copper Connection Podcast – Season 2, Episode 18: Design Principles Part 2On this episode of The Copper Connection Podcast, host Chris Bailey explores the essential design principles that shape modern construction projects — from aesthetics and buildability to cutting-edge construction methods, Building Regulations, and heritage building considerations. Whether you're designing residential homes, commercial buildings, or national infrastructure, this episode breaks down the factors that turn concepts into compliant, sustainable, and buildable structures.We cover the four key design considerations for infrastructure: climate (achieving net zero by 2050), people (human-scale, accessible design), places (community identity and ecosystem support), and valu...
2025-11-09
15 min
The Copper Connection Podcast
Understanding the Structure of the Construction Industry: Business Types, Clients & Project Capability
The Copper Connection Podcast – Season 2, Episode 17On this episode of The Copper Connection Podcast, host Chris Bailey breaks down the structure of the construction industry — a comprehensive guide to understanding business types, client categories, and what determines whether a company can take on a project. Whether you're a sole trader, working for an SME, or employed by a major contractor, this episode helps you understand where you fit in the industry and how different players work together.We explore the full spectrum of construction businesses: from sole traders plastering rooms and tiling floors, to cont...
2025-11-02
11 min
Chris Bailey
Podcast 158: Working 90-Hour Weeks
On this episode, we chat about lessons learned from two of Chris’s experiments—one to work 90-hour weeks for a month, and another to take a three-hour afternoon siesta for three weeks! Links mentioned in this episode: Chris’s new book: Intentional: How to Finish What You Start ! Chris’s article: 10 huge productivity lessons I learned working 90-hour weeks last month Chris’s article: Productivity Experiment: Should you take a three-hour afternoon siesta? You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast 158: Working 90-Hour Weeks appeared first on Chris B...
2025-10-28
41 min
Time and Attention
158: Working 90-Hour Weeks
Recapping Chris’s experiment to work 90-hour weeks, and take a three-hour afternoon siesta. The post Podcast 158: Working 90-Hour Weeks appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2025-10-28
41 min
The Copper Connection Podcast
Benefits of Good Design in Construction: How Smart Design Saves Money, Time & Builds Better Communities
The Copper Connection Podcast – Season 2, Episode 12On this episode of The Copper Connection Podcast, host Chris Bailey explores the critical role of good design in construction projects — going far beyond aesthetics to cover functionality, profitability, sustainability, and community impact. We break down what separates good design from poor design, and why getting it right from the start affects everyone in the construction chain, from clients and consultants to contractors and building services engineers.Chris unpacks the key factors that influence design decisions: budget constraints, location and community fit, energy efficiency requirements under Building Regu...
2025-10-19
11 min
Time and Attention
156: Last Call (And a Review)
Registration for Chris’s course closes on Tuesday, so get on it! Also: a brief review of the AirPods Pro 3 and iPhone 17 Pro… The post Podcast: Last Call (And a Review) appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2025-09-22
34 min
Chris Bailey
Podcast: Last Call (And a Review)
On this episode we chat about Chris’s new course and the four webinars that come with it! Signups close September 24. (You can also use the discount code POD30 for another $30 off.) We also give a brief review of the AirPods Pro 3, which we’re both loving. The post Podcast: Last Call (And a Review) appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2025-09-22
34 min
The Copper Connection Podcast
Ep3 Understanding CLP Pictograms: Safety Symbols in Construction
The Copper Connection Podcast – Season 2, Episode 3CLP Pictograms Explained: Hazard Symbols Every Tradesperson Must KnowIn this episode, host Chris Bailey breaks down CLP pictograms — the hazard symbols that every apprentice, student, and construction professional needs to understand.From flammables and corrosives to toxicity and environmental hazards, Chris explains the nine key CLP pictogramsused under UK and EU regulations, why they’re important, and how they keep workers safe on-site.What You’ll Learn in Episode 3:What CLP pictograms are and why they matter in construction.The nine official haz...
2025-09-14
14 min
The Copper Connection Podcast
Ep 2 Safety Signs in Construction: Laws, Best Practices & Life-Saving Lessons
Welcome back, builders of tomorrow — to Season 2 of The Copper Connection Podcast!We’re proud to be an award-nominated podcast — and this year, we’re leveling up even further.In this episode, host Chris Bailey takes a deep dive into the vital role of safety signs in the UK construction industry. From legal compliance to real-world application, Chris explains why proper signage isn’t just a box to tick — it’s a life-saving necessity.What You’ll Learn in Episode 2:The four main types of safety signs you’ll see on construct...
2025-09-14
15 min
Time and Attention
155: Values-Based Goals
The science of rooting your goals in what you value. Also, details on Chris’s new course! The post Podcast: How to set values-based goals appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2025-09-11
32 min
The Copper Connection Podcast
Season 1 Recap: 50 Episodes That Built Your Future
Welcome, builders of tomorrow, to the Copper Connection Podcast – your ultimate revision platform for mastering technical qualifications in construction across the UK! Whether you're shaping skyscrapers or crafting homes, this is your go-to destination for all things construction. This week It’s time to celebrate! In this special finale of The Copper Connection, we recap all 50 episodes that supported UK construction students through revision, systems learning, and practical knowledge. Hosted by Chris Bailey, this episode reflects on the topics covered—from plumbing, heating, and health & safety to business skills, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.Whether you’re an appr...
2025-06-15
07 min
Time and Attention
149: Everyday Carry
On this episode, we chat about what we carry around with us on the go to get stuff done. In Chris’s bag: Lululemon’s closest backpack to Chris’s 22oz Takeya water bottle Davek Solo umbrella (the best umbrella) Davek Mini Umbrella Sonos Ace headphones AirPods Pro earbuds The book Chris mentioned: Our Green Garden, by Diana Beresford-Kroeger MacBook Pro In Ardyn’s bag: Ardyn’s go-to handbag company Bellroy laptop case Neat little screen wipe/cleaner thing Pilot V5: Lid, Click Matt and Nat backpack Kobo Clara BW (available in Canada) Gr...
2025-04-01
34 min
Time and Attention
148: Fancy Health Stuff
On this episode, I give my long-term review (and a few rants) about three health investments: the Ozlo Sleepbuds, Apple Watch 10, and the Peloton Bike+. We also chat about whether fancy health stuff is even necessary… Links mentioned in this episode: The Ologies episode on Reality TV Ozlo Sleepbuds Apple Watch Series 10 Peloton Bike+ Our referral code is, XQVZA6—if you use it, you get $100 worth of accessories at purchase. (We will also get $100 of accessories and will donate an equal amount to charity.) You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below
2025-03-18
48 min
Time and Attention
147: Good Productivity
On this episode, we chat about how to tame instant messages—and pursuing greater productivity for the right reasons. Links mentioned in the episode: Article: No, I don’t want AI to write for me Article: There are just 10 basic values You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Good Productivity appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2025-03-04
26 min
Time and Attention
146: Econ Corner 2.0
On this episode, we chat about the economics of productivity—including our “comparative advantages,” finite resources, and how we can think “on the margin.” Links mentioned in this episode: Episode 71: Tradeoffs Episode 114: Commitment Devices Episode 102: Couples That Work interview Episode 133: How to Learn Anything interview Episode 69: How to Scale Up Your Work interview You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Econ Corner 2.0 appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2025-02-18
30 min
Time and Attention
145: Inbox Zero Is Dumb
On this episode, we chat about all of the ways that “Inbox Zero” misses the mark and is the wrong goal to have with email—but also the few cases where it can be helpful. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Why “inbox zero” is dumb appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2025-02-04
26 min
Time and Attention
144: Bad Productivity Advice
On this episode, we chat about how to separate good productivity advice from bad. Links mentioned in this episode: Reddit post: **ck your productivity system. Seriously. Chris’s article: Don’t use productivity advice to procrastinate You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Bad productivity advice appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2025-01-21
22 min
Time and Attention
143: The End of Year Survey
Here’s a link to the survey to help determine what I write about next year! We hope you have an incredible holiday! —Chris and Ardyn The post Podcast: The end of the year survey appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2024-12-19
24 min
Time and Attention
142: Smart Home Shenanigans
On this episode, we chat about how we have automated our home, and the smart home tech we have adopted over time. A couple of links about the tech we mentioned: Smart Home Protocols: Thread Explained! Amazon’s Ring doorbell fares on Privacy Not Included Here are the products we use and mentioned: The two routes with lights—choose to make either the switch or the bulb smart: Smart switch: Lutron Caseta starter system and their great Diva switches (terrible name) Smart bulb: Philips Hue starter system Smart outlet: Eve Energy Thermostat: Ecob...
2024-12-03
44 min
Time and Attention
Trip Wires
On this episode, we chat about trip wires—which can serve as“habit interrupts” to lead us to follow through on our goals more often. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: How to plant a trip wire appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2024-11-19
32 min
Time and Attention
140: Tech Setups
On this episode, we chat about the tech stacks we use to get work done on a daily basis. A few select pieces of gear that we mentioned in this episode: Ardyn’s Sony headphones Lululemon’s great backpacks Belkin mount for Mac notebooks The Caldigit TS4 dock You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Our tech setups! appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2024-11-05
29 min
Time and Attention
139: Writing Workflows
On this episode, we chat about our writing workflows—with books, academic papers, and other forms of writing. A couple of links from the episode: Bear app (great font!) Book: How to Write a Lot: A Practical Guide to Productive Academic Writing You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Our writing workflows appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2024-10-22
37 min
Time and Attention
138: Tactics That Haven’t Stuck
On this episode, we chat about which tactics and habits from past episodes haven’t stuck for us! You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Tactics that haven’t stuck for us appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2024-10-08
31 min
Time and Attention
137: Productivity Guilt
On this episode, I chat about the idea of productivity guilt—including where it comes from and what to do about it. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Productivity Guilt appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2024-09-24
14 min
Time and Attention
136: Travel Hacks
On this episode, we chat about our favorite strategies for traveling with greater ease. Some topics covered include those to help you transverse time zones, pack more quickly (and without thinking), and enjoy getting to your destination more! You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Our favorite travel hacks appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2024-09-03
38 min
Time and Attention
135: Busyness
On this episode, we chat about busyness—including how feeling busy is different from actually being busy. Some topics covered include: How we often wear busyness as a badge of honor; How we can’t be busy and focused at the same time; Busyness and busywork; “Parkinson’s Law”; How we tend to overestimate how long we work for; How busyness can be a sign we have the capacity to become more productive. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Unpacking busyness appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2024-08-20
27 min
Time and Attention
134: The News
On this episode, we chat about what the research shows about news consumption—and what to do about it. Some topics covered include: Our “surface area of concern”; Tactics for deliberate news consumption; How the news affects our mind; What our own consumption patters (currently!) look like. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Deliberate news consumption appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2024-08-06
30 min
Time and Attention
133: Learn Anything
On this episode, I chat with author and writer Scott Young about his new book, Get Better at Anything: 12 Maxims for Mastery. I hope you enjoy the conversation—about learning, mastery, and how to get better at pretty much anything. Listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: How to Learn Anything appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2024-07-23
34 min
Time and Attention
132: Meeting Tactics
On this episode, we chat about the science behind meetings—and how to get more value out of them. Topics covered include: The four helpful roles meetings have; Questioning your recurring meetings; Considering relationship dynamics in meetings; Becoming a good steward of other peoples time; Designating a meeting leader; Not attending meetings without an agenda; “Modalities” for meetings; Making meetings more interesting (and actually enjoyable); Whether asynchronous “meetings” are worthwhile; Ending zoom fatigue through oddly-timed meetings. Links mentioned in this episode: Research paper: The key features of workplace meetings: Conceptualizing the why, how, and what of meetings a...
2024-07-09
33 min
Time and Attention
Part one of our deep dive into meetings!
On this episode, we chat about the science behind meetings—along with the value and annoyances they bring. Topics covered include: Chris’s review of the Staples coworking space; What makes meetings so draining; The four main purposes of meetings; How many meetings we have a week; Collaborative versus focused work; The incremental cost of meetings; Links mentioned in this episode: Paper: Do We Really Need Another Meeting? The Science of Workplace Meetings (Mroz; Allen; Verhoeven; Shuffler) Paper: Virtual Work Meetings During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Good, Bad, and Ugly (Karll; Peluchette; Aghakhani) You can list...
2024-06-25
28 min
Time and Attention
130: Time Blocking 2.0
On this episode, we chat about strategies for time blocking your day—including the ones we use. Topics covered include: The benefits of time blocking; The “rolling” time blocking method; How long our blocks are; How autonomy interacts with time blocking; Making time blocking sustainable. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: How We Time Block appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2024-06-11
30 min
Time and Attention
129: Slow Productivity
On this episode, Cal Newport hops back on the show to talk about his great new book, Slow Productivity. It’s a great, fascinating new book (and interview!), both full of actionable insights on how to slow down in order to become more productive. Topics covered include: How “slow productivity” came into being; The three ingredients of slow productivity; “Engineering simplicity” at work; The idea of “administrative overhead”; Narrowing the “missions” you have in your work; Avoiding “task engines”; Why the pace of knowledge work has become so frenetic; Cal’s unique spin on “quiet quitting”; Studying...
2024-05-28
00 min
The Copper Connection Podcast
Welcome to Our First Episode.
Welcome, builders of tomorrow, to the Copper Connection Podcast – your ultimate revision platform for mastering technical qualifications in construction across the UK! Whether you're shaping skyscrapers or crafting homes, this is your go-to destination for all things construction. I'm your host Chris Bailey, and together, we'll dive deep into the concrete jungle of knowledge, paving the way for your success in the industry. Each episode, we'll be your compass through the complexities of construction theory, regulations, and tailored specifically for students like you striving for excellence in your studies. Join us as we conn...
2024-05-18
25 min
Time and Attention
128: Social Media
On this episode, we chat about how we use and think about social media. We cover what the problem is with social media (if there even is one), how the “novelty bias” hijacks our attention as we use it, and tactics to use to keep social media contained. Topics covered include: The books we’re reading (and loving); Impulsiveness and procrastination; How social media algorithms come down to “bodies and comparing lifestyles”; Ardyn’s incredibly wholesome Instagram feed; “Stimulation loops” and the “novelty bias”; Crowding out social media; Extracting more meaning out of social media; Putting guardrails in place...
2024-05-14
31 min
The Copper Connection Podcast
Intro to the Copper Connection
Welcome, builders of tomorrow, to the Copper Connection Podcast – your ultimate revision platform for mastering technical qualifications in construction across the UK! Whether you're shaping skyscrapers or crafting homes, this is your go-to destination for all things construction. I'm your host Chris Bailey, and together, we'll dive deep into the concrete jungle of knowledge, paving the way for your success in the industry. Each episode, we'll be your compass through the complexities of construction theory, regulations, and tailored specifically for students like you striving for excellence in your studies. Join us as we conn...
2024-05-06
03 min
Time and Attention
127: Rising Early
On this episode, we chat about whether or not you should wake up early—and how our biology and daily constraints dictate when we should rise. Topics covered include: Calculating your natural wakeup time; How our wakeup time drifts; The “sepia toned” idea we have to wake up early; Carving out time in the morning to be deliberate; How biology affects our wakeup time; How the constraints of our day affect wakeup time; Having an anchor in your morning routine; Whether waking up early makes a difference in our daily productivity. Links mentioned in this episod...
2024-04-30
20 min
Time and Attention
126: All or Something Thinking (Replay)
On this episode, we chat about how to avoid “all or nothing” thinking—also known as the “eff it” effect, or the abstinence violation effect, if you want to get technical about it. Topics covered include: Not being satisfied by partial success How the effect plays out across different time scales The idea of “sunk costs” How awareness is key to behavioral change The downfalls of black and white thinking You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: All or Something Thinking (Replay) appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2024-04-16
17 min
Time and Attention
125: Getting Unstuck
On this episode, we chat about how to stay productive when you don’t feel like it. Ideas covered include: How to settle into work when you just don’t feel like it; Not letting your to-do list turn into a list of expectations for how things will go; The idea of making “only progress”; Feeling your “pace of productivity” Understanding the procrastination triggers; Managing expectations downward; Connecting with how you feel to analyze how you’re stuck; Paying yourself ‘time and a half’; Accommodating your mental resistance to doing a task. Links mentioned in this episode: ...
2024-04-02
33 min
Time and Attention
124: Home Screens
On this episode, we chat about our phone home screens, debate about whose is better, and talk about whether “focus modes” should drive what’s on our home screen. Chris’s home screen: Ardyn’s home screen: A few links mentioned on the episode: Locket app: iOS; Android; Pedometer++ on iOS; ChatGPT voice assistant; Kijiji wikipedia page; Withings Body Scan. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Our phone home screens appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2024-03-19
40 min
Time and Attention
123: Leveraged Productivity
On this episode, we chat about how the nature of productivity is changing, and how AI is making us more productive by making our work tasks higher-leverage. Topics covered include: The most important tasks in your work; How our “productivity leverage” increases with time; How AI makes us more productive by moving us up the “layers of abstraction” in our work; How we can delegate work to AI; How AI can save us time; The most popular AI apps right now. Links mentioned in this episode: TinyWow Canva DeepL Github Copilot Hugging Face You can...
2024-03-05
31 min
Time and Attention
122: The Fake Commute
On this episode, we chat about the perks and benefits of doing a “fake commute” each morning. Topics covered include: Chris’s experiment to do a “fake morning commute”; The benefits of morning sun; Other benefits of a fake morning commute; How commuting variables affect our happiness level; Pre- and post-work rituals. Links mentioned in this episode: Happy City, by Charles Montgomery (great book!) Research: The Positive Utility of the Commute: Modeling Ideal Commute Time and Relative Desired Commute Amount Commuting and Life Satisfaction Revisited: Evidence on a Non-linear Relationship Does commuting matter to subjective...
2024-02-20
17 min
Time and Attention
Podcast: The perks of a fake morning commute
Takeaway: If you want to better transition into work mode while working from home, try a “fake commute.” Estimated Reading Time: 1 minutes, 45s. I’ve worked from home for the last decade or so. Despite all the benefits of WFH life, I do occasionally miss elements of my long-ago morning commute: the audiobook time as I rode into the office and the quiet moments of transition that bookended my workday. Luckily, I’ve found a ritual to serve these same functions. As an experiment, I’ve started a “fake active commute” each morning. To my surprise...
2024-02-20
17 min
Time and Attention
121: How To Get A Book Published
On this episode, we chat about how the book publishing industry works—and how you can publish a book of your own, either the traditional or nontraditional way. [Here’s the PDF] Lucinda mentioned in the podcast! Topics covered include: What Lucinda learned going from being an agent to being an author; The role of literary agents in getting you a book deal; The art of the “query letter”; How to shape a book so it’s distinct and differentiated; Timely and timeless ideas; Whether having a platform as a potential author is importa...
2024-02-06
30 min
Time and Attention
120: Chore Points
On this episode, we chat about chore credits, our system for getting more chores done at home. Topics covered include: How different couples split the chore burden; Chores and conflict; The value of keeping on top of chore tracking; The chore tracking sheet we designed. Here’s a link to a blank version of the chore tracking template if you want to try it on for size! Links mentioned in this episode: Get Signed book Studies and research mentioned: The Relationship Between Conflict Topics and Romantic Relationship Dynamics For American couples, gender ga...
2024-01-23
29 min
Time and Attention
119: Books We’re Reading
On this episode, we chat about the best books we’ve recently read and what we’re currently reading. We also rank Chris’s books. Here are the links mentioned in this episode: Chris’s books that we chatted about: How to Calm Your Mind Hyperfocus The Productivity Project Fiction: Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow We Spread The Classical School Snow Crash Charlie and the Chocolate Factory James and the Giant Peach Nonfiction: Stress-Free Productivity Good Habits Bad Habits Grit How to Write a Lot How Not to Age Outlive The Creative Act (and Rick Rubi...
2024-01-09
41 min
Time and Attention
The productivity apps we subscribe to—and what we’re cutting.
On this episode, we chat about our favorite productivity-related gifts that will either save time or make things more efficient. The things we mention on this episode—part one of two—include: The RovyVon USB-C Flashlight Non-affiliate link Cygolite Hotrod Lumen Bike Tail Light Non-affiliate link The Eve Energy Smart Plug Non-affiliate link Sandisk USB-C and USB-A Drive Non-affiliate link Lutron Diva Smart Dimmer Switch Starter Kit Non-affiliate link CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock Non-affiliate link Electronics Organizer Bag Non-affiliate link Belkin Boost Charge Pro Belkin iPhone Camera Mount Non-affiliate link AirPods Pro 2 Non-affiliate link All affi...
2023-12-05
36 min
Time and Attention
The productivity apps we subscribe to—and what we’re cutting.
On this episode, we chat about the professional accountability groups we’re in, and why they’re helpful. Topics covered include: A brief chat about Chris’s recent meditation retreat; What an accountability group is; The purpose of forming an accountability group; The structure of our groups and meetings; How often we meet; The sweet spot for how big the groups should be. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Forming an accountability group appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2023-11-21
37 min
Time and Attention
The productivity apps we subscribe to—and what we’re cutting.
On this quickie episode, Chris chats about why you shouldn’t let your to-do list become a source of stress in and of itself. This episode’s a shortie—Ardyn’s out sick this week—but we still wanted to put something helpful in your feed! You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! Enjoy :-) The post Podcast: Taking a sick day appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2023-11-07
06 min
Time and Attention
The productivity apps we subscribe to—and what we’re cutting.
On this episode, we chat about commitment devices—forcing functions you can add to your life to accomplish more of your goals. Topics covered include: What commitment devices are; How they work for both approach and avoidance goals; The intention—action gap; Financial commitment devices; Social devices; Ways of adding and removing friction for goal attainment. Links mentioned in this episode: Journal article: Commitment Devices: Using Initiatives to Change Behavior Journal article: Commitment Devices You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below The post Podcast: Using “commitment devices” to achieve your goa...
2023-10-24
34 min
Time and Attention
The productivity apps we subscribe to—and what we’re cutting.
On this episode, we chat about how to calculate your biological prime time—the time of the day you’re the most productive. We cover: How our productivity moves in tandem with our energy levels; How to calculate your “biological prime time”; When we’re the most productive and creative throughout the day; How to work around these hours! You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Calculating your peak productivity time appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2023-10-10
26 min
Time and Attention
The productivity apps we subscribe to—and what we’re cutting.
On this episode, we chat about how “SMART” goals might not be all they’re cracked up to me—and a few ways to set smarter goals. Topics covered include: Characteristics of “SMART” goals; The research on how effective SMART goals really are; Performance vs. process vs. learning goals; The different time frames we set intentions over; The differences between goals, intentions, and priorities; How to set better goals in general. Link mentioned in this episode: Study: The (over)use of SMART goals for physical activity promotion: A narrative review and critique You can lis...
2023-09-26
28 min
Time and Attention
The productivity apps we subscribe to—and what we’re cutting.
On this episode, we chat about the pomodoro technique and how (and whether!) we use it in our own work. Topics covered include: What the “pomodoro technique” is; The rigidity of the technique; Whether 25 minutes of focus time is a good amount; The Resistance List; How the pomodoro technique fits with the idea of flow; Why so many people swear by the pomodoro technique. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: The Pomodoro Technique appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2023-09-12
26 min
Time and Attention
The productivity apps we subscribe to—and what we’re cutting.
On this episode, we chat about stimulation fasting. Topics covered include: What stimulation fasting is; Why an overstimulated mind can be counterproductive; “Altitudes” of mental stimulation; How to conduct a fast of your own; What Chris and Ardyn are fasting from right now. Links mentioned in this episode: Book: How to Calm Your Mind You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below The post Podcast: How (and why) to do a stimulation fast appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2023-08-29
29 min
Time and Attention
The productivity apps we subscribe to—and what we’re cutting.
This week’s podcast episode is a replay—a Golden Oldie from the vaults. Hope you enjoy! The original show notes are below. This week I interview Oliver Burkeman for the podcast. Oliver is the author of the fantastic new book, Four Thousand Weeks. In the episode, we have a fun, wide-ranging conversation about a bunch of topics, including: The idea of “finitude,” and why it matters; Our “future-chasing mindset,” which prevents us from enjoying things; How trying to achieve a perfect mastery over our time can make us miserable; Where impatience comes from; The usefulne...
2023-08-16
35 min
Time and Attention
The productivity apps we subscribe to—and what we’re cutting.
On this episode, we chat about subscription overload—and which ones we think are worth the money. Topics covered include: The productivity apps we subscribe to; How basically everything is a subscription service; Opt-in versus opt-in commitments; How subscriptions have changed over time; Apps that take the subscription thing too far; How to do a subscription audit. Links mentioned in this episode: Article: Basically everything is a subscription service You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Drowning in subscriptions appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2023-08-01
27 min
Time and Attention
107: Smartphones
On this episode, we chat about lessons learned from Chris’s experiment to switch to a flip phone for a month. Topics covered include: The impetus for the experiment; How smartphones are not meant to see switched away from; The phenomenon of zombiefication; The correlation between screen time and mental health; Reflecting on why the smartphone can make us unhappy; “Time confetti” and our phone; Why a phone doesn’t provide us with depth of experience; Raw material for change; Richness and depth of communication; Handing our attention to someone else (and why it can be a...
2023-07-18
35 min
Time and Attention
106: Naps!
On this episode, we explore the science behind naps. Topics covered include: How naps help us push past productivity walls; The golden rule of productivity advice; How napping influences cognitive performance and alertness; When to take naps throughout the day; Avoiding sleep inertia; Our ratio of cognitive versus rote work; How sleep deprivation changes how we think about our productivity; What the research suggests with napping; How to take a coffee nap. Links mentioned in this episode: Book: When, by Dan Pink Study: Benefits of napping in healthy adults: impact of nap...
2023-07-04
24 min
Time and Attention
105: Multitasking
On this episode, we chat about multitasking—including where it does and doesn’t work. Topics covered include: The different levels of multitasking; Where multitasking does and doesn’t work; Why “conscious intervention” matters with multitasking; Why “attention residue” makes us less efficient as we multitask; The flip book effect; The cognitive costs of switching between tasks; How multitasking influences how memories form; Why we feel more productive when we multitask; Minding your resistance level as you’re tempted to multitask. Links mentioned in this episode: Study: Neurotics Can’t Focus (PDF) You can listen (and subscribe) to...
2023-06-20
00 min
Time and Attention
104: Productivity Gadgets
On this episode, we chat about our favorite productivity gadgets. Topics covered include: Our brief thoughts on the Apple headset (and other announcements); Having cables everywhere; Apple’s World Adaptor Kit (Apple.com); The Timeular time tracker (Timeular.com); The Aqara FP2 (Aqara.com); Logitech Spotlight Remote (Logitech.com; Amazon.com); MagSafe Battery Pack (Apple.com); Sonos Roam (Sonos.com; Amazon.com); The Elgato Key Light (Elgato.com; Amazon.com) and CamLink 4K (Elgato.com; Amazon.com); The reMarkable (reMarkable.com; Amazon.com). You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The po...
2023-06-06
40 min
Time and Attention
103: How to Think About Email (Rewind)
In this episode, I chat with Cal Newport, the author of A World Without Email, about his book—and how we can manage email during such a distracting time. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: My chat with Cal Newport about email appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2023-05-23
29 min
Time and Attention
102: Couples That Work
On this episode is my conversation with Jennifer Petriglieri, author of the book Couples That Work. On this episode we chat about: The three transitions couples tend to go through; How couples become interdependent; “Couple contracting”; How we recalibrate to what we want; Having a “secure base” in a relationship; Playing with our identities; Whether we should account for love in our career decisions. Links mentioned in this episode: Book: Couples That Work You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: The three transitions we go through as a coup...
2023-05-09
34 min
Time and Attention
101: The Flip Phone Experiment
On this episode, we chat about Chris’s experiment to use a flip phone for a month. Topics covered include: The utility we get from smartphones; Big phones versus small phones; The “jobs to be done” theory of using our devices; How gathering has become digital; How communication norms have changed over time; Managing norms within social groups; Re-evaluating our relationship with our smartphone; What to be mindful of with our phone. Links mentioned in this episode: The Alcatel Go Flip 3; The Punkt phone; Book: Amusing Ourselves to Death Journal article: How many hours does i...
2023-04-25
31 min
Time and Attention
100: Q&A Spectacular
On this episode, we chat about a potpourri of fun topics, including: What we’ve learned after 100 episodes; How to drink a glass of champagne; Our go-to productivity apps and accessories; Fantastical’s 40% price increase; Whether we still enjoy doing the show together; Tips for stimulation fasting; How we manage our time every day; How to account for time pressure in planning your days. Links mentioned in this episode: Book: How to Calm Your Mind Wikipedia: Parasocial interaction The post Podcast: 100 podcast episodes (and counting)! appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2023-04-11
40 min
Time and Attention
99: Attention Span
On this episode, I chat with Gloria Mark, the author of the new book Attention Span. Topics covered include: The benefits of managing our attention deliberately; Why (and whether) we lose control of our behavior using our devices; What makes email so damn stressful; The “attention traps” we fall into; How rote tasks are actually good for us and replenish our energy; The countless factors that influence our attention; How we all have different preferences when it comes to multitasking. Links mentioned in this episode: Book: Attention Span You can listen (and subscribe) to t...
2023-03-28
34 min
Time and Attention
98: Habits for Flow
On this episode, we chat about how to get into a state of flow, where we’re totally immersed in what we’re doing. Topics covered include: What a “flow state” is; The characteristics of a flow state; Shortcuts to help us get into a state of flow; How flow helps us perform better with creative tasks; When a flow state isn’t helpful; The “flow channel”; Why we shouldn’t always evaluate how we’re doing as we work; The steps for focusing on something, and how these can help us enter a flow state. Links mentioned...
2023-03-14
29 min
Time and Attention
97: The Flip Phone Experiment
On this episode, we chat about Chris’s latest experiment, to switch to a flip phone from a smartphone for a period of a month (to start). Topics covered include: How great the flip phone era was; How Ardyn feels about this experiment; The 6 reasons Chris is giving up his smartphone; The downsides to large screen phones; Whether smartphones are a net good in our lives; How personal the technology in our life has become; The “jobs” we “hire” our devices to do for us. Links mentioned in this episode: Article: Here’s why I’m trading...
2023-02-28
30 min
Time and Attention
96: Tranquility by Tuesday
On this episode, we welcome Laura Vanderkam back on the podcast to chat about her new book, Tranquility by Tuesday. Topics covered include: The three categories to use to plan your days and your life; Why we should plan our weeks on Friday afternoon; Laura’s daily planner of choice; How doing something three times a week makes it a habit; How carving out more white space can make us more productive; How to get more out of our leisure time; How to introduce more novelty into our days to slow down the passage of time.
2023-02-14
34 min
Time and Attention
95: Novelty Hunting
On this episode, we chat about how we like to go “novelty hunting,” especially in the digital world. Topics covered include: What “novelty hunting” is; The connection between novelty and dopamine; The three dopamine factors; The “novelty bias”; How novelty hunting is more stressful than we give it credit for; Superstimuli; How novelty changes our perception of time; Awareness of our novelty hunting; How novelty hunting used to look a lot different before the internet; What to do about it! Links mentioned in this episode: Book: How to Calm Your Mind You can listen (and...
2023-01-31
26 min
Time and Attention
94: The Science of Savoring
On this episode, we chat about the science of “savoring”—the process through which we enjoy our lives. Topics covered include: How “savoring” is the process of converting positive experiences into positive emotions; The productivity benefits of savoring; How savoring helps us become less anxious; The psychological and neurological benefits of savoring; The balance between striving and savoring; How scarcity leads us to enjoy something more; The five ways we can savor everyday life; The “savor list.” Links mentioned in this episode: Book: How to Calm Your Mind The post Podcast: The sc...
2023-01-17
23 min
Time and Attention
93: The Year of Calm
On this episode, we chat about ideas from Chris’s new book, How to Calm Your Mind! Topics covered include: How a calm mind can make us significantly more productive; How anxiety shrinks our cognitive performance; What calm actually is; How anxiety is a spectrum; How presence is the key to productivity, and how to find it; The “accomplishment mindset”; The various drafts of How to Calm Your Mind; How we need dopamine, and also how it can lead us astray; Our brain’s “acquisition mentality”; The three factors that influence the size of the dopamine...
2023-01-05
36 min
Time and Attention
92: New Year’s Rituals
On this episode, we chat about our favorite rituals to ring in the new year. Topics covered include: Whether we make New Year’s resolutions; The importance of reflection at New Year’s; How to think back to past accomplishments; Simple rituals to set goals for the year ahead; The productivity benefits of gratitude. Links mentioned in this episode: Article: Give these 3 new year’s rituals a try You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Our New Year’s Rituals appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2022-12-20
25 min
Time and Attention
91: Getting Things Done
This episode was originally published on May 7, 2019. In this episode, I chat with David Allen, the author of Getting Things Done, about his book—and how we can carve out more space for having ideas. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: My interview with David Allen, author of Getting Things Done appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2022-12-06
22 min
Time and Attention
90: Understanding Burnout
On this episode, we chat about what burnout is and how to overcome it., Topics covered include: Our own experiences with burnout; The three characteristics of burnout; The stepping stones to burnout; The two types of stress we face throughout the day; Whether burnout is a primarily workplace phenomenon; The six factors of our work that contribute to burnout. Links mentioned in this episode: Book: How to Calm Your Mind The Maslach Burnout Inventory test (paid) You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Understanding b...
2022-11-22
28 min
Time and Attention
89: The Weekly Review
On this episode, we chat about our GTD-inspired weekly reviews—and what we include in them. Topics covered include: What a “weekly review” is; The steps to doing a weekly review; How flexible to be with your review; What we each review every week; Including an “accomplishments list” in the review; Working reflections into the weekly review; The weird way Chris manages his daily schedule; The confidence a weekly review can give you; The payoff of a weekly review over time. Links mentioned in this episode: Book: Getting Things Done, by David Allen The GTD Weekly...
2022-11-08
24 min
Not Your Average Man
Ep. 11: Be the Hero of the Holiday
If you’re like the average man, you probably enjoy being the hero every once in a while when the opportunity arises. But it takes an above average man to know how he can show up as the hero in ways the average man might miss. Many of those occasions show up around the holidays, especially when it comes to dealing with extended family and boundaries. If you want to understand what boundaries are, why you need them, why your family needs them, and know how to apply them, listen in on today’s episode as we unpack it all...
2022-11-07
37 min
Time and Attention
88: Writing Tips
On this episode, we chat about our favorite writing tips—including the ones we use every day. Topics covered include: How writing triggers procrastination; Giving yourself permission to not write well; How to track writing progress throughout long projects; The power of outlining (including when you don’t want to); Where “writer’s block” comes from; How great writing can be contagious (and how to take advantage of this). Links mentioned in this episode: Book: How to Calm Your Mind Book: On Writing, by Stephen King Book: The Elements of Style, by William Strunk Jr. and E...
2022-10-25
33 min
Time and Attention
87: Self-Talk
On this episode, we briefly chat about Chris’s new book and then dig into the main topic: self-talk. Topics covered include: Chris’s next book, How to Calm Your Mind; The proportion of our internal monologue that’s negative; How self-talk can get in the way of productivity; How universal having negative thought patterns is; How meditation helps tame negative self-talk; How to not zero in on negative thought patterns; The idea of “task-unrelated thought”; How learning to focus helps combat negative self-talk; How gratitude and keeping an accomplishments list help combat negative self-talk. Links ment...
2022-10-11
24 min
Time and Attention
86: The Habits You Take for Granted
On this episode, we chat about why we take certain habits for granted, including the ones that actively provide us with dividends. Topics covered include: A brief recap on “focus modes” and “focus filters” on iOS; Why habits become invisible; Habits that are actively providing us with dividends; The great habits we each have that we regularly check up on; Why some habits can work too well; How to reflect on habits you want to sustain in the long run. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast...
2022-09-27
23 min
Time and Attention
85: Atomic Habits (Rewind)
This episode was originally published on December 3, 2019. On this episode, I chat with James Clear, the author of Atomic Habits, about his book—and how we can build and develop better habits. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: My interview with James Clear, author of Atomic Habits appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2022-09-13
30 min
Time and Attention
84: The Productive Student
On this episode, we chat about tactics for becoming a more productive student. Topics covered include: The importance of practice problems; Sitting with problems; The importance to curiosity driving learning; The value of planning on a semester-level;⁃A few apps for managing your schedule; The power of co-op and internships; Taking good breaks; Watching movies instead of binge-watching TV; Reading course outlines. Links mentioned in this episode: Podcast: Procrastination triggers Podcast: How to take a good break Printable four-month calendar creator App: iHomework App: iStudiez Pro App: Power Planner App: Grammarly You can li...
2022-08-30
36 min
Not Your Average Man
Ep 1: Becoming More Than Average
Do you want to be better than the average man? Are you tired of being forced into the box of whatever society says being a man even is? We are Chris Bailey, Christian Counselor and Marriage Coach with Expedition Marriage (https://expeditionmarriage.org), and Brad Valencia, Certified Marriage Coach with Unrelenting Pursuit (https://www.unrelentingpursuit.org). As two guys with marriage ministries and marriage podcasts, we see a common problem—our primary audience is women. Men, we know you’re out there and we know you want to grow too, and that’s why we wanted...
2022-08-29
31 min
Time and Attention
83: Measuring Productivity
On this episode, we chat about how to measure our daily productivity. Topics covered include: Why we’re so bad at measuring how much we get done; The default metrics we fall back on for determining whether we’re productive; How the number of hours we work matters less than we think; What productivity is for; Minding intention and accomplishment; The accomplishments list and other strategies for measuring productivity. Link mentioned in this episode: Article: -2000 Lines Of Code You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: How...
2022-08-16
21 min
Time and Attention
82: Task Switching
On this episode, we chat about task switching—how to get better at it, and the costs of switching tasks too often. Topics covered include: Why multitasking is so fun; How often we switch between tasks as we work; Attentional residue—what it is and how to minimize it; How task switching affects our working memory; How meditation clears our working memory; Our brain’s “novelty bias”; The multiple levels of multitasking; The reminders that come from our digital world. Links mentioned in this episode: Book: Joan, by Katherine Chen; Book: My Reading Adventures, by Anne Bo...
2022-08-02
28 min
Time and Attention
81: How to Plan Your Week
On this episode, we chat about a few favorite books we’ve read recently, and how we plan our weeks. Topics covered include: Balancing the “macro” and “micro” parts of your week; Bunching weekly obligations; “Maker” vs “Manager” schedules; The “switching costs” you incur throughout the week Attentional residue; What to consider at the start of your week. Links mentioned in this episode: Book: The Overstory, by Richard Powers Book: Finish, by Jon Acuff Book: Couples That Work, by Jennifer Petriglieri Book: Doing Economics, by Marc Bellemare Book: Indigenomics, by Carol Anne Hilton Book: The Judge’s List, by J...
2022-07-19
27 min
Time and Attention
80: Thoughtful Productivity
On this episode, we chat about how the best productivity advice helps us live in a way that’s more true to what we value. Topics covered include: The assumptions embedded within traditional productivity advice; Values-based productivity; The ickyness of hustle culture; The addictive nature of achievement; The difficulty of determining our primary values; The 10 primary values; How to reflect on what your deeper values are. Links mentioned in this episode: Book: Why We Love Article: There are just 10 basic values You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The po...
2022-07-05
27 min
Time and Attention
79: Caffeine Vehicles
On this episode, we chat about the best sources of caffeine—the ones that provide the longest lasting energy. Topics covered include: How caffeine produces a stress response; How our body adjusts to our caffeine “baseline”; The countless sources of caffeine that are out there; The magic of L-theanine; Avoiding the post-lunch caffeine crash You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: The best caffeine vehicles appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2022-06-21
18 min
Time and Attention
78: Taking Breaks
On this episode, we chat about work breaks—including how long they should be, how often to take them, and what to do during them! Topics covered include: The two “levels” of work breaks How our energy fluctuates in 90-minute rhythms How our productivity and creativity fluctuate all day long How alcohol and sleepiness affect creativity How long we should break for to optimize our energy levels What to do during your breaks How to avoid unintentional work breaks Links mentioned in this episode: Book: I Know How She Does It Article: Here’s exactly...
2022-06-07
26 min
Time and Attention
77: Sources of Motivation
On this episode, we chat about motivation, and how to find more of it. Topics covered include: The different theories of motivation Approach vs. avoidance-based motivation The need for achievement, and incentives for success Keeping a “resistance list” Discovering the opposite of procrastination Finding motivation through what we value Links mentioned in this episode: Finish, by Jon Acuff Self-determination theory (Wikipedia overview) Article: There are just 10 basic values You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Where motivation comes from appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2022-05-24
25 min
Time and Attention
76: Productivity Tech
On this episode, we review a couple of pieces of productivity tech that we’ve recently been trying out: the Timeular time tracker and the reMarkable 2 paper tablet. I’ll also have a review of the reMarkable up on the website in the coming weeks! Hope you enjoy the conversation—we loved both of the devices in different ways, even if they’re not for everyone. You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below! The post Podcast: Reviewing a couple pieces of productivity tech appeared first on Chris Bailey.
2022-05-10
40 min
Time and Attention
75: Time Blocking
On this episode, we dig deep into the power of time blocking. Topics covered include: What “time blocking” is; The “working spheres” we occupy; The importance of time blocking when you have a lot of work; Why we should time block; How time blocking helps us work with greater intention; How we time block time off; How strict to be with time blocking; The confidence and calm time blocking can give you; How to learn how long things take; Managing your time blocks after you schedule them! You can listen (and subscribe) to the podcast below!
2022-04-25
27 min
Modern Wisdom
#453 - Chris Bailey - The Most Important Principles Of Productivity
Chris Bailey is a productivity consultant, researcher and best selling author.The world of productivity is messy. Overwhelming volumes of information and contradictory advice doesn't make the world any simpler. I brought Chris on to explain the most important, core principles that research-based studies and real-world practise says contributes to better productivity.Expect to learn why time, attention and energy are your fundamental resources, how to maximise your deliberateness, why starting the day with specified intentions can change the way you work, Chris' nerdy advice for making green tea, why there's a tension between creativity...
2022-03-28
1h 12
Haunt Weekly
Haunt Weekly - Episode 225 - Chris Gay of Haunt Tech Tips
Send us a textThis week on Haunt Weekly, we're continuing the proud tradition of finding people smarter than ourselves to discuss the topics at hand. Today, that means sitting down with Chris Gay, an EMT and rescue chief that is also the brains behind Haunt Tech Tips and a regular speaker to the haunt community about how to prepare for medical emergencies.With everything going on with COVID-19 and the concerns about how it could impact the haunt industry, now is the time to start thinking about potential changes, both inside your haunt and outside of it...
2020-03-23
49 min
Chris Voss Podcast
Chris Voss Podcast FileCatalyst CEO Chris Bailey at NAB 2019 Booth Interview
FileCatalyst CEO Chris Bailey at NAB 2019 Booth Interview The post Chris Voss Podcast FileCatalyst CEO Chris Bailey at NAB 2019 Booth Interview appeared first on Chris Voss Official Website.
2019-04-09
00 min