Faith, Family, and the Super CommuteIn this episode of Real Work, Paul Sanftner returns to share a surprising life update and deep dive into the "real work" of balancing high-level professional contribution with being a present father, husband, and friend. After six years as a Public Information Officer for the City of San Leandro, Paul reflects on the importance of intentional transitions, the power of community, and why he is choosing to prioritize family over the grind of a 232-mile daily "super commute". Paul discusses his philosophy on leadership—from managing a local government communications team to coaching Little League—and how physical discipline and faith provide the foundation for a productive life. This conversation explores:-The "Super Commute" Reality: Navigating a 116-mile journey (one way) while staying productive and present. -Leading with Trust: Building loyal teams by prioritizing personal connections and staff well-being over rigid oversight. -The Mental Shift: Practical "tricks" for transitioning from a high-stress workplace to a peaceful home environment. -Sacrifice for Success: Why taking a potential pay cut to prioritize family is a winning strategy for long-term happiness. Key Takeaways & "Homework"-The 5-Day Note: Write a physical note or text to your spouse at least every few days to express appreciation. -Seek Elder Wisdom: Connect with mentors or "elders" in your community to learn their routines for prioritizing family. -Morning Discipline: Use exercise and meditation to set a calm, patient tone for the day. "Life is not about myself; it’s about service to others... doing the real work of raising your family and being present with your spouse." — Paul Sanftner 📚 Books Mentioned -Lords of Finance: The Bankers Who Broke the World by Liaquat Ahamed -Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't by Simon Sinek Shop Books on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4eVUg7y🌐 Organizations & CommunityCity of San Leandro YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cityofsanleandroF3 Nation: A free, peer-led men’s leadership and workout movement. www.f3nation.com🎙️ The Real Work Podcast🤝 Leadership. Presence. Purpose.#earnscommissions

In this episode of the Real Work podcast, host Jennifer Tarle is joined by her husband, Rob Pakulski, to continue their series on AI literacy for beginners. Real Work explores the grit and strategy behind how we choose to spend our time and energy. Today, Jennifer and Rob strip away the technical jargon to discuss how anyone can start jumping into the "AI journey" without feeling overwhelmed.

In this conversation, we cover:

The "Software Stack": Breaking down what terms like "Microsoft stack" or "Google stack" actually mean for your daily workflow.

Where to Start: How to find AI tools like Microsoft Copilot, Google Gemini, and the "OG" of AI, ChatGPT, already embedded in the tools you use every day.

Privacy & Prompts: Understanding what AI really knows about you and how to use the "chat box" to get the best results.

Practical Homework: Three simple action items to help you move from reading about technology to actually doing the work—including a fun way to use image generation with your pets!

Whether you are afraid of the tech or just don't know where to click, this episode provides the "real work" steps to move from observer to active participant in the AI revolution.

🔔 Subscribe for more Real Work: https://www.youtube.com/@RealWorkIdeas

🔗 Connect with Rob Pakulski:https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertpakulski/

🔗 Connect with Jennifer Tarle:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifertarle/📌 Playlist: AI

Pronunciation in American English👉 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxEs-su4NimVFmMlDj5h1aZ2XfG7hArYF

Shop Mic: HyperX QuadCast S – RGB USB Condenser Microphone for PC, PS4, PS5 and Mac affiliate link:https://go.shopmy.us/p-54709769

What if coding is no longer about writing code, but about thinking, prompting, and building with AI? In this episode of The Real Work Podcast, we explore the discipline and strategy behind navigating the new AI landscape with Ben Novak. Ben is an AI product builder and search expert specializing in helping organizations transition from traditional enterprise search to modern AI-driven solutions. He shares his journey from fifteen years as a product manager at JPMorgan Chase to building next-generation search sites using tools like Claude Code. We dive into the "real work" of vibe coding—an iterative, feel-based approach to development where you talk to the AI to bring ideas to life without needing to master complex programming languages. Ben explains how Claude Code physically manipulates files on your machine to create content and deploy updates, acting as a tireless partner in the building process. Key Topics Covered:-The Shift in Search: Moving from keyword-based search to intelligent systems using embeddings and Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG). -Claude vs. Claude Code: Understanding the difference between a chat interface and a tool that actively writes and manages your file system. -The "ClaudeMD" File: How to create a "memory" for your project to ensure the AI follows your specific parameters every time. -Accelerating Work: Using AI as an accelerant to handle mundane tasks and "slog," allowing for more creative and high-level thinking. -The Learning Curve: Practical tips on prompting techniques and using tools like NotebookLM to stay ahead. 0:00 – Intro: What is Claude Code?2:30 – Beyond the Chatbot: Agentic Development7:15 – Setting up the Environment12:45 – The Iteration Loop: Prompt, Test, Refine18:20 – Managing Large Codebases with AI25:00 – Integrity and Impact in AI Product Design32:10 – The Future of the "Developer" RoleAbout Our Guest:Ben Novak brings deep experience in enterprise search architecture and taxonomy design, combined with a practical, execution-focused approach to AI development.🔗 Connect with Ben: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-novak-a567374🌐 Visit Ben’s Website: https://www.bennovak.com/ (Built with Claude Code!) ✨ The Real Work PodcastThe Real Work Podcast explores the discipline, strategy, and mistakes behind meaningful work—from founders and educators to operators and leaders navigating real change.Shop This Episode:HyperX QuadCast S Microphone: https://go.shopmy.us/p-54709769QUINCE Stretch Crepe Cinched Waist Blazer: https://go.shopmy.us/p-54627701(#earnscommissions)Explore AI Tools:ChatGPT: https://chatgpt.com/Claude: https://claude.ai/Gemini: https://gemini.google.com/The Real Work of Coding with AI: Claude Code & Product Building with Ben Novak: How AI & Claude Code are Changing How to Build#AI #ClaudeCode #VibeCoding #EnterpriseSearch #TheRealWorkPodcast #BenNovak #TechStrategy

Some people wait for the right time to adapt. Others realize the shift is already happening—and start learning in real time.In this episode of The Real Work Podcast, I spoke with Rob Pakulski, a business leader and strategic operator, about what it actually looks like to start using AI in your daily work—and why waiting may be the biggest risk professionals face today.His perspective cuts through the noise: AI isn’t a future trend. It’s becoming basic workplace literacy—just like email, spreadsheets, and the internet.His story shows how meaningful progress with AI doesn’t come from mastering complex tools—but from starting small, staying curious, and building confidence through use.In our conversation we explored:• why AI is now a required skill—not a “nice to have”• how to get started (even if you have zero experience)• the difference between searching and prompting• how giving context improves AI results dramatically• why AI should be treated like a collaborative assistant• how using AI frees you from repetitive tasks to focus on higher-value workOne idea stood out:In a world where many feel behind, the real risk isn’t using AI incorrectly—it’s not using it at all.Growth doesn’t come from waiting until you understand everything.It comes from starting, experimenting, and learning as you go.The real work is getting started.🎙️ Part of The Real Work Podcast➡️ Based on this conversation:✨ The Real Work Podcast explores the discipline, strategy, and mistakes behind meaningful work—from founders and educators to operators and leaders navigating real change.Because the real story of success is rarely the one people see.

Some trips are about checking boxes. Others are about slowing down, getting lost, and figuring things out as you go.In this episode of The Real Work Podcast, Jennifer Tarle and Rob Pakulski share their experience traveling to Joshua Tree National Park and Death Valley National Park—two desert landscapes that look similar on the surface but feel completely different in real life.Their story highlights a different kind of work: the real work of exploration, flexibility, and unplugging from routine.In this conversation we discuss:• how to plan a national park trip (and what not to overplan)• why unstructured travel leads to rich experiences• the key differences between Joshua Tree and Death Valley• why unplugging from technology can transform a family tripFrom sunrise hikes and golden hour sunsets to unexpected moments like spotting a SpaceX rocket launch, this trip shows how meaningful experiences often come from what you don’t plan.One idea stood out:In a world built around constant connection, the real work may be learning how to disconnect.Some of the best moments happen when there’s no signal, no schedule, and no clear next step—just the willingness to explore.The real work is learning how to unplug and be present.🎙️ Part of The Real Work Podcast➡️ Subscribe for more conversations about leadership, reinvention, and the real work behind meaningful lives.Resources Mentioned➡️ Jennifer Tarle Travel Recommendations @plannin https://plann.in/YiBgw4Parks Discussed• Joshua Tree National Park• Death Valley National ParkConnect with Jennifer Tarle ➡️ Travel Site: https://plann.in/YiBgw4✨ The Real Work Podcast explores the discipline, strategy, and mistakes behind meaningful work—from founders and educators to artists, researchers, and leaders.Because the real story of success is rarely the one people see.

Some people find their path early. Others discover it by trying many things and paying attention to what keeps drawing them forward.In this episode of The Real Work Podcast, I spoke with Jason Wavle, an attention curator, video producer, and theology graduate who has spent years helping people notice what truly matters.His story shows how meaningful work often grows through curiosity, community, and the discipline of paying attention to the ordinary moments of life.

In our conversation we explored:

• why many career paths are non-linear and why that’s often a strength

• how vulnerability is essential for building real community

• why curiosity and experimentation are important in early career decisions

• the idea of “attention curation” in a distracted world

• how ordinary moments often reveal deeper purpose

One idea stood out:In a world competing for our attention — social media, notifications, endless information — the real work may simply be learning where to focus.Meaningful work often grows quietly through small decisions, consistent habits, and the willingness to notice what others overlook. The real work is paying attention.

🎙️ Part of The Real Work Podcast

➡️ Shop Resources Jason Mentioned: https://www.amazon.com/shop/tarlespeechlanguageservices-englishpronunciation/list/3HQMYR4MV3WMU?ref_=cm_sw_r_tw_ud_aipsflist_8GAX1BYBXVZEPZNDK9RK

➡️ Connect with Jason

Website: https://jasonwavle.co

YouTube: @JasonWavle

Instagram: @JasonWavle

✨ The Real Work Podcast explores the discipline, strategy, and mistakes behind meaningful work — from founders and educators to artists, researchers, and leaders. Because the real story of success is rarely the one people see.

The real work of leadership often begins long before a career. It starts with discipline, tradition, and showing up when the pressure is highest.

In this episode of The Real Work Podcast, former University of Michigan Drum Major Rodney Weir shares what it takes to lead one of the most iconic marching band traditions in college sports. From sticking with learning an instrument to performing the famous Michigan drum major backbend in front of more than 100,000 fans, Rodney explains how preparation, confidence, and tradition shaped his experience.

Rodney also discusses the legendary baton toss over the goalposts—an iconic Michigan ritual where catching the baton is said to predict a Michigan win.

Today, Rodney brings those same leadership skills into his career as a physical therapist, researcher, and mentor. His work now supports both the medical field and the next generation of musicians through scholarships and education.

🎙️ Part of the Real Work series

📺 Watch or listen wherever you get your podcasts➡️ Subscribe for more conversations about leadership, reinvention, and the real work behind meaningful careers.

Connect with Rodney Weir

➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodney-weir-610586b7

➡️ Publications: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rodney-Weir

➡️ Coloma Band Student Scholarship:https://www.berriencommunity.org/coloma-band-students-get-new-scholarship-opportunityMedia / Traditions Discussed

➡️ Shop and Listen: https://amzn.to/4cAEo9z

University of Michigan Drum Major Backbend tradition

Baton toss over the goalposts legend associated with Michigan football games

RuPaul's Drag Race

Retirement isn’t the end. It’s a recalibration.In this episode of Real Work, Jennifer Tarle sits down with Denise E. Williams — occupational therapist of 45 years, intuitive healer, classically trained singer, dancer, speaker, and founder of Holistic Hoop — to explore what it means to live rhythmically, intentionally, and spiritually aligned.From managing pediatric clinics and keynote speaking… to studying intuition for decades… to being invited to perform in New York in her seventies, Denise shares how curiosity, movement, and discipline have shaped every season of her life.This isn’t about slowing down.It’s about creating your own day.In this episode, we discuss:-Why rhythm is essential for mental and physical health-How to reinvent “retirement” through movement and purpose-The power of intuition — and how anyone can develop it-Voice, breathing, and speaking with clarity and confidence-Acting “as if” to overcome fear and performance anxiety-Why you must be your first patient before serving others-Healing through humor, creativity, and self-expressionDenise reminds us that growth doesn’t stop — it evolves.🎙️ Part of the Real Work series📺 Watch or listen wherever you get your podcastsConnect with Denise E. Williams➡️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@holistichoop3295/shorts➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/denise.e.williams/➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/denise.e.williams/➡️ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@denise.e.williams➡️ TikTok: @desniseewilliams72Shop Media from Episode: https://amzn.to/40A2IAYBooksShow Your Work! — Austin KleonKeep Going — Austin KleonPerformance Anxiety Music / artistsDuke EllingtonCount BasieSarah Vaughan