How to Escape the Productivity Trap

The Wellness Scoop

Four Thousand Weeks: Embrace Your Limits. Change Your Life.

39:50

The truth is out West! We’re hopping on the ET Highway and venturing to the most notorious alien hot spots, including Roswell’s infamous crash site, Area 51’s eerie perimeter, and a mysterious desert watchtower. Join us as journalist Laura Krantz, host of the podcast Wild Thing , beams up to share stories from the front lines of UFO reporting—from strange sightings and quirky festivals to a mailbox where people leave letters to extraterrestrials. Maybe you’ll even decide for yourself: Is Earth a tourist stop for spaceships? UFO hot spots you’ll encounter in this episode: - UFO Watchtower (near Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado) - Roswell, New Mexico - Area 51, Nevada - Extraterrestrial Highway (aka State Route 375), Nevada - Little A’Le’Inn, ET Highway, Nevada - E.T. Fresh Jerky, ET Highway, Nevada - Alien Research Center, ET Highway, Nevada - The Black Mailbox, ET Highway, Nevada Via Podcast is a production of AAA Mountain West Group .…

3 years ago 54:27

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We’re joined by writer and author Oliver Burkeman to talk about the productivity-trap; the narrative that keeps our sense of self-worth and value tied to how much we get done and achieve. In his new book, Four Thousand Weeks, Oliver argues that this only results in disappointment and unhappiness, and explores how to cultivate a healthier relationship with productivity to ultimately lead a more fulfilling life.

We discuss:

Confronting the mismatch between what we can do and what we think we can do
Disarming perfectionism and the ‘when I’ mentality
The relationship between productivity and self-worth
The catch 22 of getting things done
Why the notion of ‘balance’ may not always be the answer
The benefit of enjoying leisure activities without any end goal in mind
The distraction economy
Ways to approach getting what matters done
How to cultivate a healthier relationship with productivity

Oliver Burkeman:

‘Four Thousand Weeks: Time and How to Use It’

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183 episodes

#Health and Well-Being #Society #Bite Size #Fitness #Mental Health #Scoop

How to Escape the Productivity Trap

The Wellness Scoop

884 subscribers

published 3 years ago

MP3•Episode home

We discuss:

Confronting the mismatch between what we can do and what we think we can do
Disarming perfectionism and the ‘when I’ mentality
The relationship between productivity and self-worth
The catch 22 of getting things done
Why the notion of ‘balance’ may not always be the answer
The benefit of enjoying leisure activities without any end goal in mind
The distraction economy
Ways to approach getting what matters done
How to cultivate a healthier relationship with productivity

Oliver Burkeman:

‘Four Thousand Weeks: Time and How to Use It’

Four Thousand Weeks: Embrace Your Limits. Change Your Life.

See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

183 episodes

#Health and Well-Being #Society #Bite Size #Fitness #Mental Health #Scoop

All episodes

The Wellness Scoop

1
The Extra Scoop: How to Build a Truly Healthy Relationship with Food 35:11

3 days ago35:11

35:11

As summer approaches and body image pressures creep in, many of us start to feel more self-conscious — often without even realising it. In this episode of The Extra Scoop , we’re joined by registered dietitian and nutritionist Sarah Elder to unpack what it really means to have a healthy relationship with food. Sarah brings over a decade of experience and a refreshingly compassionate, realistic approach to nutrition. Together, we explore how to tune into your body’s needs, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and find a way of eating that feels intuitive, enjoyable and sustainable. We also talk about the powerful influence of social media, childhood conditioning, and the subtle ways diet culture still shapes how we see food and ourselves — plus how we can break those patterns for the next generation. Whether you're navigating years of food rules or simply want to feel a bit more at ease around eating, this conversation is full of gentle, practical ideas to help you reconnect with food in a way that works for you . In This Episode, We Cover: What a truly healthy relationship with food looks and feels like Why it’s normal to want to feel good in your body — and how to do that without falling into restriction How to start spotting hunger and fullness cues again What intuitive eating and mindful eating actually mean in practice Advice for navigating social media without feeling overwhelmed The impact of generational food messaging — and how to break the cycle One small, manageable step to help you shift all-or-nothing thinking Why healthy looks different for everyone About the Guest: Sarah Elder is a registered dietitian and nutritionist with over a decade of experience in clinical and community settings. She supports individuals in building a more balanced, relaxed relationship with food and specialises in gut health, hormonal wellbeing and the connection between food and mood. Sarah is passionate about cutting through the noise of diet culture and helping people reconnect with food in a way that’s intuitive, enjoyable and sustainable. You can find her on Instagram @saraheldernutrition . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
Is Ozempic Changing the World? & What the Hell Is Netflix Bum? 53:41

6 days ago53:41

53:41

This week, we’re diving into the small (and slightly ridiculous) things that could be having a big impact on your health. We start with the science behind fibre — and how eating more of it may actually help flush out forever chemicals from the body. Then there’s the rising concern over plastics disrupting our sleep, thanks to their unexpected effect on the body’s circadian rhythm. We also explore the viral trends taking over wellness feeds right now — from fart walks to “Netflix bum” (yes, it’s real), plus the new wave of advice on why midlife strength training is so important for healthspan. Elsewhere in the episode, we unpack how ozempic might change the world and we answer your listener question on how to reduce sugar cravings without falling into the restriction trap. Recommendations: Check out @sambentley for good, positive news that breaks through the doom and gloom! Packing cases - a big stress saver before going on holiday Pitta breads - versatile and reduces waste! Charles Dowding's Youtube channel - namely his 'no dig' method. Lots of useful tips for your garden Plus you can order Rhi's new book The Unprocessed Plate here And don’t forget: The Wellness Scoop Live is happening on Saturday 14th June at Cadogan Hall — find your tickets here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
How to Live Longer with Champagne, Mushrooms… and Raw Testicles? 1:02:13

13 days ago1:02:13

1:02:13

In this week’s episode, we’re diving into four surprising headlines that touch on everything from daily habits to big lifestyle shifts. First up, new research reveals that just two weeks without mobile internet can reverse ten years of cognitive ageing and significantly boost mental health. We break down what happened in the study, and whether a digital detox could work in real life. Then, we explore the idea of nondoing — a powerful wellness concept from Deepak Chopra that isn’t meditation or rest, but a deeper kind of stillness that reconnects you with yourself. We also look at a bold claim from The Telegraph — that poor posture could shorten your life — and share practical steps to improve it, starting today. And finally, a fun one: champagne might actually be good for your heart. But before you pop a bottle, we unpack what the science says (and what it doesn’t). In today’s trend check, we explore the booming world of mushroom-based wellness drinks, from lion’s mane lattes to adaptogenic teas — are they worth the hype? Recommendations: The Irrational Ape - Dr David Robert Grimes Apple TV's 'Your Friends and Neighbours' Ella's chimichurri recipe: - ½ shallot/small red onion, 1 clove garlic, a large handful (25g) of fresh parsley, finely chopped, a small handful of fresh coriander (15g), finely chopped, 1 red chilli, 2 tablespoons cider vinegar, 5 tablespoons olive oil, pinch of salt Live Show Tickets - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
"11 foods to avoid to slim down for summer" & the Loneliness Epidemic 59:20

20 days ago59:20

59:20

In this week’s episode, we’re unpacking the return of restrictive headlines — starting with The Telegraph’s “11 foods to avoid if you want to slim down for summer.” We break down what these kinds of lists get wrong, why they’re still everywhere, and how food swaps can either empower or shame, depending on the lens. We also explore the news that WeightWatchers has filed for bankruptcy, what it says about the end of calorie-counting culture, and how new weight-loss pills are changing the conversation from habits to hormones. Then we turn to Spain’s bold new school food policy — banning ultra-processed snacks and requiring fruit, vegetables and fish at every school meal. Should the UK follow? Plus, new data from CALM reveals a loneliness epidemic among young adults — right as AI-powered “companions” go mainstream. We ask whether virtual support is helping or making things worse. And in this week’s trend check: is psyllium husk really the “natural Ozempic” — or just good fibre marketing? Recommendations: Good Enough by Dr Tara Porter - a good reminder for us to stop trying to be perfect! Don’t forget — The Wellness Scoop Live is happening June 14th at Cadogan Hall. Tickets are flying, and we’d love to see you there: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
The Extra Scoop: The Truth About Glucose Monitors 26:28

24 days ago26:28

26:28

Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) have exploded in popularity, promising everything from weight loss to personalised health insights — but are they really delivering? To help us make sense of the science, we’re joined by Dr. Javier González, Professor of Nutrition and Metabolism at the University of Bath. Javier recently co-authored a study exploring how CGMs impact non-diabetic adults, and found that they might be giving misleading feedback and even encouraging unhelpful dietary choices. In This Episode, We Cover: Blood sugar 101 What CGMs are and how they work The key findings from Dr. González’s recent study Common myths and misconceptions about glucose tracking. Are CGMs actually beneficial for people without diabetes? The risks of relying too heavily on health tech Simple, science-backed strategies for managing blood sugar — without a monitor Live Show Tickets - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
Bikini Bodies, Sugar Cravings and Thriving over Rotting 1:09:13

27 days ago1:09:13

1:09:13

In this week’s episode, we’re taking a closer look at the sneaky side of nutrition—starting with hidden sugar. From yoghurt and oat milk to savoury sauces and baby food, we reveal just how much sugar is lurking in everyday items—and why it's so hard to spot on the label. Weight loss jabs like Ozempic and Mounjaro are still dominating headlines, but behind the hype lies a deeper conversation about self-worth, body image, and how 90s diet culture continues to shape our thinking. We share a powerful reflection from Elizabeth Day on the inner critic, societal pressure, and what true body neutrality looks like in 2025. We also break down the latest ultra-processed food research, including shocking new stats on early death risk. Are UPFs as dangerous as the data suggests—and what can we actually do about it? Plus, the baby food pouch scandal has reignited debate about infant nutrition. We unpack the findings, the marketing spin, and why transparency is urgently needed in this space. Elsewhere, Rhi reveals the surprising truth about plastics in activewear, Ella shares her take on the “bed rotting” trend, and we answer a listener question on the best ways to cook your veg without losing nutrients. Reccomendations: Crash Diets Don’t Work - listen to Rhi's excellent reminder in the ep Weight loss jabs and the struggle for self-acceptance - a fascinating article from Elizabeth Day's Substack Email your MP via the Save The Children website to help protect foreign aid, urgently needed by mothers and newborn children across 12 countries. Live Show Tickets - https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
The Extra Scoop: Collagen and the Supplement Boom 32:21

4 weeks ago32:21

32:21

Supplements are everywhere — from collagen to magnesium, creatine and ashwagandha - how much of it is science, and how much is just smart marketing? In this short conversation, we’re cutting through the confusion and breaking down what really matters when it comes to supplements and nutrition. To help us unpack it all, we’re joined by Dr. Karan Rajan, NHS surgeon and online educator known for busting medical myths with science and clarity. He shares expert insights into what’s worth taking, what to avoid, and how to navigate the ever-expanding world of supplements with confidence. In This Episode, We Cover: Whether a balanced diet is enough — or if most of us actually need supplements What collagen is and whether it really delivers on the hype The most beneficial supplements, and who can benefit most Whether more is better when it comes to supplementing Red flags, myths, and common misconceptions to watch out for The science behind trending supplements like ashwagandha, creatine, magnesium, and collagen Three science-backed tips for supporting your nutrition without the overwhelm Live Show Tickets - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
Reversing Inflammation, Power Naps & The Fall of Weight Watchers/Diet Culture 1:06:34

5 weeks ago1:06:34

1:06:34

In this week’s episode of The Wellness Scoop , we’re diving into some of the biggest shifts and studies shaping the future of health and wellness. We look at a powerful new study showing how switching to a traditional diet for just two weeks can reduce inflammation and boost immunity — without supplements or complex protocols. It’s part of a growing movement back to simpler, seasonal, plant-forward eating. We also explore the link between high blood pressure and dementia risk. A large-scale trial found that addressing cardiovascular health in midlife — through medication and lifestyle changes — could reduce dementia risk by 15%. We break down what that means in practical terms. WW (formerly WeightWatchers) is reportedly heading for bankruptcy, and it’s raising big questions about the future of diet culture. With the rise of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, we’re seeing a shift toward science-backed, compassionate health strategies that move away from guilt, tracking, and restriction. Rhi brings back a fascinating study on daytime napping and brain health — showing that a short daily nap may help slow brain ageing and preserve brain volume. Plus, we look at the wellness trends forecast for 2025 — from high-protein breakfasts and mastic gum to brain flossing, okra water, and metabolic tracking tools. What’s worth paying attention to, and what’s just another layer of over-optimising? Recommendations: Batch-cooking quinoa! A real time saver for when you're having a busy week Sparkling water, super tasty and without additives. Panorama's investigation into baby food pouches - worth watching ahead of the discussion next week Live Show Tickets - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
The Extra Scoop: Are Our Phones Making us Miserable? 37:50

5 weeks ago37:50

37:50

We’re living in a screen-saturated world—and many of us are starting to ask: what’s all this phone time actually doing to our brains? In this episode, we’re joined by TJ Power, neuroscientist, founder of The DOSE Lab , and author of The DOSE Effect . TJ’s work explores how our brain chemicals—dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins—shape our mental wellbeing, especially in a digital age where constant scrolling is the norm. In This Episode, We Cover: What dopamine is and how it’s affected by our screen habits How social media and phone use influence mood, motivation, and mental health Whether excessive phone use is actually addictive—and what the warning signs are The science behind phone-free mornings and pre-bed habits How constant scrolling might be affecting your emotional resilience Common myths about dopamine and tech Three practical, science-backed ways to reset your brain and improve focus Live Show Tickets - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
Cold Plunges, Morning Routines & The 3 Bursts of Ageing 59:42

6 weeks ago59:42

59:42

In this week’s episode of The Wellness Scoop , we’re diving into some of the most talked-about trends and headlines in health and wellness. We look at the new science around ageing reveals we don’t age steadily — but in three distinct bursts at 34, 60 and 78. What’s happening inside our bodies, and what can we do about it? Are cold plunges actually hurting your muscle growth? We break down the bold claim that they reduce gains by 66% — and what the research really shows. Olive oil shots are the latest TikTok wellness craze — promising better digestion, fewer cravings and glowing skin. But do the benefits hold up beyond the buzz? We also look at the trend of morning routines. Plus, we discuss a major new report on alcohol and breast cancer risk, explore whether pets might actually make us happier than our partners, and ask whether wellness routines have gone too far in the pursuit of “optimization.” And in our listener question this week: how do you talk to kids about “unhealthy” food without creating shame or fear? Recommendations this week: Ella's film picks: We Live in Time and Wicked Signs by Laura Lynne Jackson Reign - a gripping TV series Live Show Tickets - ⁠https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
The Extra Scoop: Can You Eat Your Way to Glowing Skin? 21:36

6 weeks ago21:36

21:36

Is glowing skin all about luck, or can your diet really make a difference? In this 15-minute conversation, we’ll dive into the buzzwords, nutrients, and so-called "skin superfoods" that claim to transform your skin. We’ll also explore lifestyle factors like stress, hydration, and sleep, and ask whether supplements and trendy fixes really live up to the hype. Plus, we’ll reflect on the pressures and unrealistic beauty standards that impact how we feel about our skin. We’re joined by Dr. Thivi Maruthappu, Consultant Dermatologist and Nutritionist, to discuss how diet and lifestyle impact skin health. In This Episode, We Cover: Whether diet truly affects skin health or if it’s more about genetics Key nutrients and "skin superfoods" that can make a difference The role of stress, hydration, and sleep in skin health The effectiveness of supplements, including collagen and beauty gummies Whether quick fixes like face sculpting devices and LED lights actually work Dr Thivi Maruthappu is the author of SkinFood: Your 4-Step Solution to Healthy, Happy Skin Live Show Tickets - https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
Longevity, Collagen & the Perfectionism Trap 1:04:52

7 weeks ago1:04:52

1:04:52

In this week’s episode, we explore the link between movement, health, and body image—asking whether it’s time to rethink what it means to be fit at any size . From inclusive workout spaces to powerful personal stories, we look at how fitness and longevity go beyond the scales. Green tea is making headlines for its potential brain health benefits in older adults, but what does the science actually say? And how does it stack up against coffee? We break down the latest research, plus what to look for in a good-quality brew. Collagen coffee is the latest beauty-meets-wellness trend—but is it just frothy marketing? We look at what collagen really does, who might benefit, and whether your morning latte is the best delivery method. We also dive into a brilliant piece from Style Magazine in The Times about perfectionism and the pressure to optimise every part of our lives. Is the pursuit of betterment actually stealing your joy? And could “good enough” be the healthiest choice of all? We take a closer look at how to age in the healthiest way possible—breaking down the latest research on healthspan and what we can actually do now to support our long-term wellbeing, from diet to mindset to movement. Plus, Ella shares her New York adventures, Rhiannon talks about oat bars, and we unpack SACN’s latest update on ultra-processed foods—why not all UPFs are created equal, and what this means for plant-based eating. Recommendations this week: Is Maximising’ Your Life Making You Miserable? A great article from Style Magazine in this weekend’s Times Rhi's easy to make oat bars - quick and delicious Book recommendation - I May Be Wrong Live Show Tickets - https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
The Extra Scoop: The Fertility & Lifestyle Connection 23:24

7 weeks ago23:24

23:24

How much does lifestyle really impact fertility, and what’s just a myth? In this short conversation, we tackle common questions about age, sperm count, plastics, and nutrition, exploring what the science actually says. We’ll also share actionable advice on what you can do to support your fertility and cut through the noise of confusing headlines. We’re joined by Ro Huntriss, founder of Fertility Dietitian UK, a leading UK fertility dietitian to unpack it. In This Episode, We Cover: How much modern lifestyle factors truly affect fertility versus myths The role of age, relationships, and contraceptive use in fertility Endocrine disruptors, microplastics, and their real impact The most important nutrition and lifestyle choices for fertility Ro Huntress is the author of the cookbook Deliciously Healthy Fertility: Nutrition and Recipes to Help You Conceive . Follow her on Instagram @fertility.dietitian.uk Live Show Tickets - https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
The Extra Scoop: Sleep 101 32:46

8 weeks ago32:46

32:46

Sleep is something we all do every night, yet many of us struggle to get enough of it. With so much conflicting advice, it can be hard to know what really matters. To help us separate fact from fiction, we’re joined by Dr. Lindsay Browning, a chartered psychologist, neuroscientist, and sleep expert with a doctorate in insomnia from the University of Oxford. Dr. Browning breaks down the science of sleep, debunks common myths, and shares practical strategies to help you improve your sleep quality. In This Episode, We Cover: How much sleep we really need and why it matters The consequences of sleep deprivation on health The impact of sleep tracking devices, late-night scrolling, and caffeine on sleep quality The gender gap and sleep Practical tips to improve sleep and wake up feeling more refreshed Dr. Lindsay browning is the author of Navigating Sleeplessness: How to Sleep Deeper and Better for Longer Live Show Tickets - https://cadoganhall.com/whats-on/the-wellness-scoop-with-ella-mills-and-rhiannon-lambert/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

The Wellness Scoop

1
Crash Diets, Raw Milk & Declining Brain Power 1:06:43

9 weeks ago1:06:43