Success Road: Inspiration For Your Journey

In this episode, I share just a couple things. The first thing is that I am guest posting this week on WholeDonkey.org: http://wholedonkey.org/guest-post-why-its-time-to-hurry-up-and-slow-down/ (Why It’s Time to Hurry Up and Slow Down) We have the tendency to hurry up and rush through everything in life. I got my driver’s license on my 16th birthday. The examiner gave me a perfect score and called me a defensive driver. I had only been behind the wheel for a month, so I was probably more scared than defensive. That title, however, was short lived. I got my first car shortly after that – just a little Hyundai Excel. It was not a racecar by far, but I pushed that little thing to the limit on my startups. I would see the light turn green and then floor it! I felt that there was no need wasting time getting up to the speed limit... To read more, http://wholedonkey.org/guest-post-why-its-time-to-hurry-up-and-slow-down/ (visit WholeDonkey.org) Looking to Guest Post? This could be your chance,if you're lookin

Dave Arnold is a return guest on the podcast this week. He was previously in http://qualitylivingmadesimple.com/how-to-overcome-displacement-in-your-alley-dave-arnold/ (episode #35), in which he talks about his book, "Pilgrims of the Alley." http://qualitylivingmadesimple.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/COVER-Its-Possible.jpg ()Dave Arnold has written another book: "http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00IFVAWXQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00IFVAWXQ&linkCode=as2&tag=josrivblo-20 (It's Possible: How to Thrive, Not Just Survive.)" He shares the story of how he began the journey in his own life that led to this book, starting with a sermon he was preparing: "The Impossible Becoming Possible." He refers to the story of Hugo Cabret, who was an orphaned boy that lived in a train station in Paris during the early 1930's. He became engaged in rebuilding a automaton. He deduces that the little mechanical man was just waiting to do what he's supposed to do - waiting for his purpose.

This week, Jared Latigo is joining me. I met him on http://48days.net (48day.net) and he has also been on Kent Sanders' podcast (Kent was also on http://qualitylivingmadesimple.com/how-to-simplify-your-life-with-evernote-kent-sanders/ (episode #009 of this podcast)). You can http://jaredlatigo.com (go to his site) or http://twitter.com/jaredlatigo (connect with him on Twitter). Making Connections Jared has published his own book: "http://booklaunchplace.com/project/the-connection-brand/ (The Connection Brand)." He is offering some bonuses if you purchase the book by July 15. Here's a snippet of what the book is about: In this connection economy, the companies that will succeed now and in the future are the ones that build connection with us. They are the brands that have developed advocates to market for them and actually care about what the public thinks and says. We can build those brands as well. Whether you are one person, 25 or 500, the core principles that brands like Apple, Michael Hyatt, Dave Rams

I asked people a while ago about something that helps them to have a better quality of life. Several people answered that reading blogs, listening to podcasts, and writing were some things that helped to improve their quality of life. I agree with this, so I'll share some things about blogging and podcasting. Click to see some http://qualitylivingmadesimple.com/top-10-blogs-to-follow/ (blogs )and http://qualitylivingmadesimple.com/my-top-podcasts/ (podcasts )I follow (note: these are previous post, and some of these may have changed; but these are very good lists). Benefits of blogging and/or podcasting: You can train yourself to write regularly You can start to be viewed as an expert in your field You can start to create connections with people These benefits can help your business It can help you write a book Benefits of reading blogs and listening to podcasts: Connect with other bloggers/podcasters Connect with their audience Part of continuing education and growth How to start blogging:

http://qualitylivingmadesimple.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/family-blog.jpg ()Mark Sieverkropp and family This is part 2 of my discussion with Mark Sieverkropp. If you missed the first part, you can http://qualitylivingmadesimple.com/discussing-exercise-and-dieting-with-mark-sieverkropp-qlms-017/ (listen to it here). Mark Sieverkropp also joined me on http://qualitylivingmadesimple.com/importance-of-purpose-qlms-003-podcast/ (episode 3 when we talked about purpose). You can find him on his http://sieverkropp.com (website), http://twitter.com/skropp2 (Twitter), https://www.facebook.com/msieverkropp (Facebook), and Linkedin. Apps to use: http://www.loseit.com/ (LoseIt) http://runkeeper.com/ (RunKeeper) Here's the links mentioned in the show: http://walking.about.com/cs/calories/l/blcalcalc.htm (http://walking.about.com/cs/calories/l/blcalcalc.htm) http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/exercise/SM00109 (http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/exercise/SM00109) http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/what-eat-before-d

Two of my struggles: dieting and exercising. And we talk about both of these on this episode. This is actually going to be part 1 of 2 - the discussion went longer than planned, so we're splitting it up. I'm joined by Mark Sieverkropp. He joined me on http://qualitylivingmadesimple.com/importance-of-purpose-qlms-003-podcast/ (episode 3 when we talked about purpose). You can find him on his http://sieverkropp.com (website), http://twitter.com/skropp2 (Twitter), https://www.facebook.com/msieverkropp (Facebook), and Linkedin. I also share a little about Dave Jackson's podcast "http://logicalloss.com (Logical Weight Loss)." Check it out if you would like some more about weight loss. Benefits of exercise (besides the obvious physical and health benefits): Focus better Clear thinking Self-confidence Apps to use: http://www.loseit.com/ (LoseIt) http://runkeeper.com/ (RunKeeper) Here's the links mentioned in the show: http://walking.about.com/cs/calories/l/blcalcalc.htm (http://walking.about.com/cs/ca

All the different social media networks that are out there can be complex. There's Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Pintrest, and dozens of others. Is there a way to simplify it all? That's where Erik J. Fisher steps in. He specializes in social media for a living. He holds a regular spot doing a social media segment on the http://podcastanswerman.com (Podcast Answer Man) show. He also has his own podcast, http://beyondthetodolist.com (Beyond the To Do List). You can also find Erik on https://www.facebook.com/erikjfisher (Facebook )and https://twitter.com/ErikJFisher (Twitter). Here's some of the questions we cover: How can social media improve your life? (how can it improve the quality, the simplicity, etc.) What are some differences between the different social media options? What is the best one to use or to start with? With everything that is available, how can we simplify how we use social media? Question: Do you have any tips about simplifying social media?

Back in December, I first set goals for 2013. I've shared some updates for the first couple months, but dropped the ball since March. In this episode, I review over these goals, where I am, and what I'm going to be working on. First, in light of Memorial Day, I'd like to thank all those that have served or are still serving in our military. Here is my http://joshuarivers.net/2013-goals/ (Goals for 2013 - Original List) and the http://qualitylivingmadesimple.com/3-focus-words-for-2013/ (3 Focus Words for 2013). You can follow the trail of my goals as http://qualitylivingmadesimple.com/track-2013-goals/ (I track my progress) as well. I'd like your feedback on future show topics and people to interview. Here's just a couple that I'm working on: Social Media (with Erik J. Fisher of the Beyond the To Do List podcast) Exercise (with Mark Sieverkropp) Blogging/Podcasting Your ideas.... Questions: How are your 2013 goals coming? Do you have any topics or suggestions for the show?

http://www.thedenverchannel.com/weather/moore-oklahoma-tornado-and-damage-may-20-2013 ()Photo from http://www.thedenverchannel.com/weather/moore-oklahoma-tornado-and-damage-may-20-2013 I'm sure that most, if not all, of you have heard about the tornadoes that ripped through Oklahoma and other places on May 19-20. I read reports that the tornado on May 20 that went through Moore, OK, was between 1-2 miles wide. It's wind gusts were near 200 mph at times. It ranks among the worst tornadoes ever. If you are wanting to help give toward the relief effort, http://www.redcross.org/news/press-release/Red-Cross-Statement-on-Oklahoma-Tornado (the Red Cross) is a great way to do that. Hearing different stories and reflecting on the events has caused me to think about the things that are most important to me. Yes, there are many other disasters that can cause you to think about these, but this one (literally) hit close to home. Don't put too much emotion into "stuff" Things can be replaced; people can't Relationshi

In this episode, I reflect on risk. We face risks all the time. Sometimes the risks are small. Sometimes they are huge. We need to learn to properly handle risk. In Jon Acuff's book "Quitter," he has a chapter devoted to facing risk in light of pursing your dream job. Risk brings fear with it, which he also deals with in his newest book, "Start." These principles of facing risk also apply to every area of our lives. Here are some highlights from this chapter in his book: "Every dream has risk associated with it." "90 percent perfect and shared with the world always changes more lives than 100 percent and stuck in your head." "You have the perfect amount of time each day for the things that matter most." Questions: Are you getting paralyzed by the risks you face? Do you have anything that helps you conquer the fear?

In this episode, I talk about procrastination. This is an area I struggle with, and I am working on breaking the cycle of procrastination so I can get more accomplished and improve my quality of life. You may also like to go back and listen to episode #009 where I talk with Kent Sanders about using Evernote to simplify your life. I'm currently reading "Procratination: Why You Do It, What to Do About It NOW" by Jane b. Burka and Lenora M. Yuen. The first part of the book shares some things to help us understand why we procrastinate: The Cycle of Procrastination 1.       “I’ll start early this time” 2.       “I’ve got to start soon.” 3.       “What if I don’t start?” 4.       “There’s still time.” 5.       “There’s something wrong with me.” 6.       The final choice: To do or not to do 7.       “I’ll never procrastinate again!”   Reasons for Procrastination: 1.       Fear of failure 2.       Fear of success 3.       Fear of losing the battle 4.       Fear of separation 5.       Fear of intimacy

I had a question submitted by The Iron Jen: "What drives him each day to be his best and how does he get through tough times?" From 48 Days: You talk about the fact that God has uniquely gifted you in: 1.       Skills and abilities 2.       Personality traits 3.       Values, dreams, and passions The difference between vocation, career, and a job Having a balance in all areas (7 parts of the Wheel of Life) Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs vs. Dan's Hierarchy of World-changers   Dan, your podcast has made a huge difference in my life over the past year and a half! My question is, I'm trying to work on thinking more creatively. What activities or exercises do you use to develop and maintain the ability to think creatively? – Mark Sieverkropp   "Wisdom Meets Passion" book : WOW! Brilliant concept, Excellent execution, & Super insightful. Thank you and Jared for this book! What advice do you have for fathers who desire this kind of relationship with their future adult sons? How do fathers nurture and

Benefits of taking action now: Get Things Done Stop Procrastination Lower Your Stress More Free Time Better Accomplishments Save Time & Money Make Your Life Easier Keeps You Alert & On Top Of Things Overcome Daily Obstacles & Challenges Make Yourself A More Valuable Worker Opportunities   How to take action: Stay Positive Having The Right Attitude Get Self-Motivated Stop Procrastinating Set Goals Get Started / Take The First Step Be Optimistic Do Things Others Don’t Want To Be Up For Challenges & Obstacles Work Smart Not Hard   Action items: Leave a comment about how taking action now can help you or something that helps you to take action Leave a question for Dan Miller. I'll be interviewing him on Thursday, April 25, discussing doing work you love. Mostly based on his book “48 Days to the Work You Love” but also his new book “Wisdom Meets Passion” Leave a review on iTunes (http://simpleliving.us/itunes (simpleliving.us/itunes))  

This is the 9th episode of the Quality Living Made Simple podcast. I’m still preparing for the EntreLeadership 1-Day Event, so I asked Kent Sanders to help share some things about getting started with using Evernote. Kent shared a couple things about himself: Turn 39 this year!  Wow, time goes by fast! Married to Melanie for 17 years this June.  Our son Ben just turned 9. My background is pastoral ministry – now teach at SLCC; been there since 2004.  Main areas of teaching are music, worship, guitar, arts – also direct Chapel services and our worship leadership program. Here’s how you can connect with him: http:artistssuitcase.com kent@artistssuitcase.com Twitter: @kentsanders Podcast: The Artist’s Suitcase Youtube: username is kentsanders – see Evernote tutorials Interview topics: ·         What exactly in Evernote? ·         How do you get information and content into Evernote? ·         How do you use Evernote in your daily life? ·         How do you find your stuff in Evernote once it’s

My name is Joshua Rivers, and this is the eighth episode, and we’ve been able to have some incredible episodes so far. I am so excited about the possibilities in the future as well. Last week, I was able to speak with Chris LoCurto about preparing to attend an event or conference. He has worked with Dave Ramsey’s team for over 12 years, and has put together and spoken at dozens, or even hundreds of events. He shared some fantastic advice. I have shared a few other resources to help prepare for events. I also promised a list of action items that I planned on sharing just on the blog last week, but I decided to share them on the podcast as well. I’ll share them in just a minute.   Nothing Undone Lessons: First, I’ll be doing a little recap and then I’ll be sharing some things about reaching for our potential. This is part of the little series I started in the first episode based out of Joshua 11:15, where it says about Joshua that “he left nothing undone.” I shared some things about priorities, purpose, pri

I am personally preparing to attend the EntreLeadership 1-day event in Olahoma City on April 19th. I am searching and sharing ways to prepare for such an event. I have some advice that's been given so far, plus an interview with Chris LoCurto, who has helped put on dozens if not hundreds of events himself. Lily’s advice: 1.       Stock up on business cards 2.       Update your online profiles 3.       Post something awesome on your blog 4.       Start connecting with attendees on social media and promote the event before, during, and after   Kelly’s advice: 1.       Pray – throughout the days and weeks before attending 2.       Do read the EntreLeadership book before attending 3.       Be very intentional in preparation before the event 4.       Meet and keep in touch with other attendees Listen to the episode to hear Chris' advice!

Blog at: http://simpleliving.us/006 (SimpleLiving.us/006) This week, I have an interview with Dave Stachowiak, and we're talking about core values. You can find out more about Dave at http://coachingforleaders.com (CoachingForLeaders.com).  Here are some of the questions he answers: What are core values? Why are core values important? How many core values should you have? How do  you start choosing core values?  We also had a question submitted by Mark Sieverkropp: Can you describe the difference between a mission statement and core values? I have a feeling that they are distinct and both have a place, but I'm curious to know how you define both and what role they play in a personal, family or organizational life. Here are some of the links from the show: http://qualitylivingmadesimple.com/importance-of-core-values/ (Importance of Core Values) http://coachingforleaders.com/podcast/csfl20/ (Coaching For Leaders Episode #20 - Your Core Values) http://www.innovatelearning.com/values (List of Core

Interview with Kristin Lindeen, daughter of John Miller. Speaking about growing up in the QBQ home, lessons she learned, and how she is now able to pass it on to her own children. You can find out more about Kristin and QBQ: Twitter: https://twitter.com/KristinLindeen (@KristinLindeen) Website: http://www.qbq.com (qbq.com) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theqbq?fref=ts (https://www.facebook.com/theqbq?fref=ts) Here are some listener submitted questions: What things did John do that had the most impact on kristin in changing how she asked questions? Was there a point in her life when she rememers looking at personal accountability or has it always been ingrained in her thinking. - Wade Thorson "What are you doing to pass down the QBQ legacy that your father has passed along to you?" - Jon Stolpe

Today, I have John G. Miller with me. He is known for his work with QBQ! The Question Behind the Question. He has a new book about specifically for parents. We will be talking about what QBQ is and the importance of personal accountability. We will look at the simplicity of the concept and some practical ways to implement them. A main focus is on his newest book, "Parenting the QBQ Way."

Today, I have Mark Sieverkropp with me. The conversation was pre-recorded, and there was some background noise and a couple times of poor connection. Regardless of a couple minor issues, it was a great conversation about the importance of purpose. Below are some of the things we talked about. You'll need to listen to get the full content. Quote by John Maxwell in “The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth”: People say there are two great days in a person’s life: the day you were born and the day you discover why. I want to encourage you to seek what you were put on this earth to do. Then pursue it with all your effort. Purpose answers the question "Why?" Purpose gives us reason. Your purpose needs to be bigger than yourself. Joshua's purpose was bigger than himself God has a purpose and plan for each of us If we don't fulfill our purpose, God finds someone else (Esther 4:14) Next episode, we will have a great interview with John G. Miller - the QBQ Guy! He has a new book out called "Parenting the QBQ Way"