In this episode of The Queen of Automation, Meghan Donnelly sits down with Tom Clement, an experienced entrepreneur, professor, and systems thinker. Together, they explore the realities of work-life balance, the importance of building systems for small businesses, and how leveraging automation can give entrepreneurs back their most valuable resource—time.

Tom shares his unique journey, from owning a motorcycle dealership to teaching business strategies and working with incarcerated individuals to provide hope and reduce recidivism. The conversation covers the misconceptions of "work-life balance," the value of loyalty and humanity in the workplace, and practical steps for creating systems that simplify operations.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Tom’s journey from business owner to professor.
• Why "work-life balance" is a myth and how to embrace a unified life.
• The importance of aligning your work with your life goals.
• The power of systems and how small businesses can build them effectively.
• Using automation and AI to create operational manuals and save time.
• The importance of fostering meaningful connections, both online and offline.

CHAPTER TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Work-Life Balance and Life Goals

(14:00) Effective Time Management Strategies

(21:13) Navigating LinkedIn and Building Relationships

(33:30) Leveraging Technology for Success

CHAPTERS WITH LONG SUMMARIES 

(00:00) Work-Life Balance and Life Goals

This chapter of the Queen of Automation podcast features a conversation with Tom Clement, a seasoned business leader and educator. We explore Tom's diverse career journey from owning a motorcycle dealership to becoming a business professor, including his unique role in teaching incarcerated individuals in Arizona. The discussion centers on the concept of work-life balance, with both Tom and I expressing skepticism about the traditional notion of separating work from personal life. Instead, we advocate for integrating work and personal life into a single life plan driven by personal goals. By prioritizing life goals over conventional career paths, individuals can create a lifestyle that aligns with their personal aspirations, whether that means taking unconventional days off or making career choices that support family and personal fulfillment.

(14:00) Effective Time Management Strategies

This chapter explores the timeless principles of time management inspired by Alan Lakin, a prominent figure in the field from the 70s and 80s. I recount my experience of inviting a dean, a staunch advocate of Lakin's methods, to speak to my class on personal marketing. The session underscored two pivotal lessons: using the mantra "What's the best use of my time right now?" and maintaining an efficient inbox by promptly dealing with or discarding emails. I share my approach to managing emails through a folder system, prioritizing crucial messages while keeping distractions at bay. Emphasizing the importance of organization, I discuss how I keep my inbox clutter-free and stress the value of preserving data by never deleting emails, allowing for easy retrieval when necessary.

(21:13) Navigating LinkedIn and Building Relationships

This chapter explores the approach of using LinkedIn as a tool for genuine networking rather than focusing on metrics like impressions and reach. I discuss the importance of building a meaningful inner circle and the value of connecting with mentors and individuals who can provide guidance and insights. The conversation emphasizes the power of offering value to others, even for free, to create authentic relationships that lead to recommendations and opportunities. I share the realization of LinkedIn being an echo chamber, encouraging the pursuit of third-degree connections to expand networks beyond familiar circles. Additionally, the importance of building connections outside of LinkedIn, such as through email lists, is highlighted to ensure lasting relationships. The overall message is to use LinkedIn for enjoyable and impactful networking rather than being consumed by follower counts and sales tactics.

(33:30) Leveraging Technology for Success

This chapter highlights the fascinating insights shared by Tom, whose expertise and cool projects are discussed throughout the episode. We encourage listeners to explore Tom's work further through the links provided in the show notes. The conversation underscores the importance of technology functioning correctly to be truly beneficial. As we wrap up this engaging session, we remind everyone to stay curious and connected with the evolving world of technology. Join us next week for more exciting discussions.

Connect with Tom Clement on LinkedIn to discover how he helps businesses and individuals build systems that streamline operations, embrace automation, and align work with life goals, creating sustainable success and balance.