PM Talks S2E8: Creativity

This episode is the latest in our monthly PM Talks series, where I’m joined by my friend Patrick Rhone to explore timeless ideas around productivity, creativity, and everything in between. In this conversation, we take a deep dive into what it really means to be creative—especially when you're busy, overwhelmed, or stuck in perfectionism.We unpack how constraints can fuel creativity, how time and space are both essential and elusive, and why imperfection might be your creative superpower. There’s a lot of riffing, real talk, and reflection in this one—and if you’ve felt like your creative well is running dry, this might be the refill you’ve been waiting for.Six Discussion PointsThe relationship between speed, structure, and creativityWhy constraints can actually enhance creativity (yes, really)John Cleese’s insight: creativity requires both time and spaceHow perfectionism can sabotage creative flowTurning mundane tasks into creative opportunitiesThe importance of being your own audience—and knowing what’s “for you”Three Connection PointsPatrick’s WebsiteRick Rubin's The Creative Act: A Way of Being"The creative process needs space—not just time." Read 50 more lessons I've learned here.This episode is a reminder that creativity isn’t just for artists—it’s for anyone trying to make something meaningful with their time. Whether you’re juggling routines, deadlines, or just trying to show up a little more intentionally each day, the ideas we explore here can help unlock creative momentum—even in life’s most constrained moments.Grab My New Book: The Productivity Diet: A Practical Guide to Nurturing your Productive PotentialIf 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.