10/14/2025
Joe Sanok, CEO, a top podcaster in the world, and author of our featured book Thursday is the New Friday, inspired us to reimagine the way we work—and the history that got us here. While days, months, and years have a scientific basis, the 7-day week was born from Babylonian astronomy, and the 40-hour work week came from early industrialists like Henry Ford, who wanted to create predictability (and sell more cars). But does that model still serve us 100 years later?
Joe explored how burnout, loneliness, and disengagement are rising—especially among younger and remote employees—and how it’s time to rethink what productivity really means. Through small, intentional shifts like the +1/-1 rule (adding or removing one thing to improve your life), brief outdoor breaks every 20 minutes, and focusing on curiosity, fresh perspectives, and imperfect action, leaders can help teams feel more energized and fulfilled.
The 4-day work week is just one example of what’s possible when we design work around people, not the other way around. Together, we can create workplaces—and lives—that help us all work less, achieve more, and live better.
A very special thank you to our sponsors for making this all possible and for supporting our local leaders! Benjamin Twiggs - The Original Cherry Store UpNorthLive Priority Health The Copy Shop Vensure Employer Solutions WTCM Radio Horizon Books - Traverse City True North Legal Group Practice of the Practice
Photo credit goes to John Robert Williams Photography, our outstanding photography sponsor. Thank you!
