
Deep Questions with Cal Newport
450 episodes — Page 3 of 9
Ep 344Ep. 344: You Are Not a Cog
Modern knowledge work jobs should be cushy gigs. Fixed hours, air conditioning, no hard manual labor, flexibility. So why are we so often burnt out and what can we do about this reality? In this episode, Cal draws a lesson from an unexpected corner of computer science, computer security research, about how we can fix some of the big problems of work in a digital age. He then answers listener questions and returns once again to the topic of AI in a final tech corner segment. Find out more about Done Daily at DoneDaily.com! Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: You Are Not a Cog [11:00] - Should I break my large tasks into many small ones? [38:18]- How will AI affect living the deep life? [42:47]- How can I say “no” to more incoming requests? [48:14]- Should an architect take on broader roles that don’t necessarily add to career capital? [52:03]- Can a nurse implement time blocking? [54:33]- Can a Kansan system work across all departments without being overly complex? [58:11]- CALL: Organizing the details of a Trello board [1:03:19] CASE STUDY: Lifestyle centric value based planning for a young family [1:07:58] TECH CORNER: AGI is not Super-intelligence [1:15:35] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?medium.com/@tony.infisical/password-requirements-are-still-confusing-in-2023-also-heres-our-flavor-44ce03a3255cyoutube.com/watch?v=ZzJMxh68RGI Thanks to our Sponsors: This episode is sponsored by to you BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/deepquestionsmybodytutor.comupliftdesk.com/deepshopify.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 343Ep. 343: A Minimal Protocol for Taking Control of Your LIfe
One of the most commonly recurring themes on this show is the conflict between too much versus not enough productivity. In this episode, Cal attempts to find new clarity in this debate by identifying a minimal viable productivity system – that is, what are the bare minimum components needed to escape the chaos and stress of total disorganization. He then answers listener questions and dives into a A.I. themed Tech Corner segment. Find out more about Done Daily at DoneDaily.com! Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: A Minimal Protocol for Taking Control of Your Life [3:23] - Is “finding purpose” and “following your passion” the same thing? [32:38]- How can I capture key takeaways from podcasts if I’m always on the move? [37:18]- Can you elaborate on project work with your PhD students? [39:22]- How can I deal with my federal job with drastic priority changes due to political party shifts? [41:40]- Is it possible for some managers to avoid pseudo-productivity? [49:15]- CALL: Writing a book as a side hustle [51:58] CASE STUDY: An athletic trainer makes a career transition [59:19] TECH CORNER: A.G.I. versus SkyNet [1:07:30] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?nytimes.com/2025/03/04/opinion/ezra-klein-podcast-ben-buchanan.html Thanks to our Sponsors: cozyearth.com/deepbyloftie.com (Code: DEEP20)oracle.com/deepquestionsindeed.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
IN-DEPTH: Greatness on Trial (w/ Brad Stulberg and Clay Skipper)
bonusIn this episode of IN-DEPTH, Cal is joined by the writers Brad Stulberg and Clay Skipper to talk about the topic of “greatness.” They attempt to pick apart the weird moment we are in where, on the one hand, we feel aversion to performative demonstrations of “pseudo-greatness” (think: Elon Musk on-stage with his chainsaw) but on the other, still admire useful skill and seek it in our own lives. Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaINTERVIEW: Greatness on Trial (w/ Brad Stulberg and Clay Skipper)Links:https://www.landroverusa.comhttps://www.calnewport.com/slowThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the theme music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 342Ep. 342: The Good Life Algorithm
How do escape a life of shallowness and distraction to cultivate something deeper and more meaningful? In this episode, Cal draws from both algorithm theory and the habits of a reclusive author to highlight an effective strategy for achieving this goal – one that underscores the advantages of the small targeted changes versus major grand leaps. He then answers listener questions and reviews the five books he read in February. Find out more about Done Daily at DoneDaily.com! Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: The Good Life Algorithm [1:42] - How should a federal worker navigate all the negative news? [23:56]- How do I get my non-geeky partner on board with the deep life! [26:40]- How can I develop a schedule with flexibility following a health setback? [29:08]- How should I reshape a once successful aerospace company? [35:06]- Are there perceived benefits to pseudo productivity? [43:32]- CALL: What does it mean to work enough each week? [50:19] CASE STUDY: Can knowledge workers be happy doing less? [58:55] FEBRUARY BOOKS: The 5 Books Cal Read in February, 2025 [1:07:50] - Moral Ambition (Rutger Bregman)- Brotherhood of the Rose (David Morell)- How Dante Can Save Your Life (Rod Dreher)- Buzz Saw (Jesse Dougherty)- The Siren’s Call (Chris Hayes) Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?newyorker.com/culture/office-space/the-hollow-core-of-elon-musks-productivity-dogmatim.blog/2019/02/18/jim-collins/ Thanks to our Sponsors: landroverusa.comshopify.com/deepthrivemarket.com/deepvanta.com/deepquestions Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 341Ep. 341: Drowning, Treading, or Swimming
Tim Ferris is working on a new book about saying “no” and has posted the introduction online. In this episode, Cal reads an excerpt from this introduction and then tries to make sense of it with a metaphor about a shipwreck that helps unwind the complexity of dealing with the scourge of having too much to do. Cal then answers listener questions and reacts to a productivity meme inspired by a recent episode. Find out more about Done Daily at DoneDaily.com! Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: Drowning, Treading, or Swimming [6:27] - Will AI productivity gains reduce quality? [27:30]- Can you elaborate on the Digital Declutter? [33:38]- Is reading a book considered deep work? [38:41]- What are Cal’s thoughts on content aggregator services such as Inoreader? [43:49]- Can a large team with ever-changing demands avoid pseudo-productivity? [51:47]- CALL: Dealing with doom-scrolling [58:31] CASE STUDY: A UFC announcer applies Cal’s principles [1:07:40] CAL REACTS: Productivity Meme [1:19:42] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?tim.blog/2025/01/13/the-no-book/ Thanks to our Sponsors: expressvpn.com/deepzocdoc.com/deeporacle.com/deepquestionslandroverusa.com Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 340Ep. 340: Productivity Rain Dances
Sometimes the quest for productivity can seem like the embrace of activity for the sake of activity, a prospect that inevitably leads to exhaustion. In today’s episode, Cal explores this idea by discussing “productivity rain dances,” why they’re dangerous, and what works better instead. He then answers listener questions and ends with a Tech Corner segment in which he fact checks Joe Rogan’s understanding of ChatGPT. Find out more about Done Daily at DoneDaily.com! Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: Productivity Rain Dances [7:04] - How should I take notes during a meeting? [26:31]- How could a layman (not a computer scientist) test the veracity of the claims of an AI system or its potential? [28:53]- How can I utilize my full-days in my cube with cancelled telework to best make progress on my phantom “part-time” job? [33:37]- Can I be a CS instructor with a PhD? [37:45]- Can I convince my advisor to “do fewer experiments” for my doctoral thesis? [42:47]- CALL: College in the modern digital environment [48:28] CASE STUDY: Managing multiple email inboxes [54:22] TECH CORNER: Does ChatGPT have “survival instincts”? [1:05:17] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?x.com/firelog_io/status/1887541363287138445x.com/ChrisWillx/status/1800198794107064646?lang=enyoutube.com/watch?v=HigVe4IqsBM Thanks to our Sponsors: This episode is sponsored by to you BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/deepquestions and get on your way to being your best self.shopify.com/deepupliftdesk.com/deepmybodytutor.com Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 339Ep. 339: Let Brandon Cook
Find out more about Done Daily at DoneDaily.com! In a recent appearance on the Tim Ferriss podcast, the prolific fantasy author Brandon Sanderson revealed how he reshaped his media company to help him do what he does best. In this episode, Cal explores the idea, and asks the key question: why is this not more common? While exploring an answer, Cal uncovers a bigger issue in modern digital knowledge work and points towards potential answers. He then answers listener questions and concludes with a tech corner about Alan Turing. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: Let Brandon Cook [4:56] - What is your opinion on mind mapping and have you ever used it? [32:35]- What “really matters” to develop career capital for a civil servant? [36:28]- What’s your view on Daniel Immerwahr’s recent New Yorker article on the attention crisis? [42:23]- How does mentoring fit into knowledge work development? [49:54]- Is it possible to use Paul Jarvis’s approach to start a company to merge the divide with Slow Productivity? [57:20]- CALL: A 15-year-old and a smartphone [1:03:28] CASE STUDY: Using AI to expand work skills [1:07:59] TECH CORNER: Let Turing Cook [1:21:41] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?tim.blog/2025/02/05/brandon-sanderson/spectrum.ieee.org/alan-turings-delilahpodcast.feedspot.com/computer_science_podcasts/ Thanks to our Sponsors: cozyearth.com/deepbyloftie.com (Code: DEEP20)indeed.com/deepgrammarly.com/podcast Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 338Ep. 338: Why You’re Always Distracted
Find out more about Done Daily at DoneDaily.com! One of the most common complaints from listeners to the podcast is the feeling that they’re too distracted; both at work and at home. In today’s episode, Cal reviews five major explanations for this current state of affairs, and then uses this new understanding to identify concrete actions to make things better. He then answers reader questions and reviews the five books he read in January. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: Why You’re Always Distracted [3:50] - How should I use social media for my documentary film project? [29:40]- How can I master a new job skill in a busy schedule? [37:11]- Any advice for developing and nurturing my “second mountain” values? [42:10]- How can overcome project paralysis? [48:41]- Is my knowledge work role doomed to fail? [52:10]- CALL: Supporting a spouse during stressful career planning [58:01] CASE STUDY: The benefits of a commute [1:05:35] JANUARY BOOKS: The 5 Books Cal Read in January, 2025 [1:14:13] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? Thanks to our Sponsors: thrivemarket.com/deepshopify.com/deeplandroverusa.comvanta.com/deepquestions Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 337Ep. 337: Hacking Remote Work
Remote work is a hot discussion topic right now as president Trump moves to eliminate it from government work. For those who are still allowed to work from home this new focus provides a good chance to rethink how to get the most out of these arrangements. In today’s episode, Cal presents three foundational ideas from his reporting about what makes remote work actually work, and for each provides concrete advice individuals can apply to make their own virtual setups better. He then answers reader questions and ends with a tech corner focused on what the law says about whether social media should be banned for kids. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: Hacking Remote Work [4:58] - How does Cal explain time management vs. focus and attention management? [40:53]- How can I self study hard, technical concepts? [50:12]- Should I quit my PhD program after 3.5 years? [54:13]- Does Slow Productivity work for college students? [1:08:35]- CALL: Organizing a writing sabbatical [1:16:55] CASE STUDY: A software engineer removes distractions [1:25:41] TECH CORNER: Is Social Media More Like Cigarettes or Junk Food? [1:33:11] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?newyorker.com/culture/infinite-scroll/is-social-media-more-like-cigarettes-or-junk-foodyoutu.be/-U7D4Fw67Zs?si=srHaYr3inZ9uAd0p Thanks to our Sponsors: zocdoc.com/deeporacle.com/deepquestionsnotion.com/calindeed.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 336Ep. 336: On Screens and Solitude
In a recent article for The Atlantic, Derek Thompson writes about the troubling trends toward increased solitude. In this episode, Cal looks at the role technology plays in these trends, pointing out some surprising factors and then using these insights to come up with a practical plan for reconnecting with the world. He then answers listener questions and concludes with a tech corner segment inspired by yet another New Yorker column. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: On Screens and Solitude [3:09] - How can I study at night after my doctor work? [26:49]- Can you comment on Leopold Aschenbrenner’s Situational Awareness essay? [36:45]- How do I successfully pursue my non-work values? [51:33]- How can I become a better writer? [1:00:56]- Can someone break into the top 0.1% of their respective field without periods of unsustainable and obsessive work? [1:02:44]- CALL: Managing active projects [1:08:42] CASE STUDY: A follow-up from Episode 323 [1:13:02] CAL REACTS: An Offline Person Tries TikTok for the First Time [1:19:34] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?axios.com/2024/06/23/leopold-aschenbrenner-ai-future-silicon-valleytheatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2025/02/american-loneliness-personality-politics/681091/newyorker.com/culture/infinite-scroll/what-happened-when-an-extremely-offline-person-tried-tiktok Thanks to our Sponsors: upliftdesk.com/deeplandrover.com/usaexpressvpn.com/deepshopify.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 335Ep. 335: On Morning Routines
One of the most popular and most derided topics in online productivity spaces are so-called morning routines. In this episode, Cal wades into this content, identifying three major categories of these routines. For each, he explores what’s good and what’s bad. In the end, he uses these lessons to update his own daily routines in some highly specific ways. He then answers reader questions and ends with a “tech corner” segment that builds on Cal’s latest essay for The New Yorker. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: On Morning Routines [4:04] - How should I choose what podcasts to listen to? [41:49]- How does Cal track daily steps? [52:57]- Can I switch my office hours around? [57:23]- How long should I remain at a large marketing firm? [1:02:37]- How can I reject meetings? [1:10:02]- CALL: How to obsess over quality while researching [1:13:22] CASE STUDY: A career transition to become a pastor [1:18:57] TECH CORNER: YouTube and the Creative Middle Class [1:28:18] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?x.com/jockowillinktiktok.com/@spartan/video/7259530421099056427nbcnews.com/better/lifestyle/i-tried-miracle-morning-routine-month-here-s-what-happened-ncna981786youtube.com/watch?v=roK4g1e28mMnewyorker.com/culture/rabbit-holes/a-lesson-in-creativity-and-capitalism-from-two-zany-youtubers Thanks to our Sponsors: This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/deepquestionscozyearth.com/deep (Use code: DEEP)mybodytutor.combyloftie.com (Use code: DEEP20) Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 334Ep. 334: Hallmark Movies and the Deep Life
In this episode, Cal talks about his journey into the tinsel-tinged world of Hallmark Christmas movies, where he discovered an unexpected connection between these low-budget productions and a key idea in the quest to cultivate a deep life in a distracted world. He then answers questions from listeners and reviews the books he read in December. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: Hallmark Movies and the Deep Life [2:31] - Does Cal use a Commonplace book? [22:53]- How do I create an effective weekly template? [25:54]- Is your monthly book reading separate from “work” reading? [31:18] - What are the best strategies for a college student to learn calculus? [36:38]- What are other book recommendations that dive deeper into Slow Productivity? [43:50]- CALL: Struggling to apply multi-scale planning to grow a business [46:15] CASE STUDY: Transitioning to knowledge work [52:18] DECEMBER BOOKS: The 5 Books Cal Read in December, 2024 [1:03:17] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?nytimes.com/2024/12/08/arts/christmas-movies-hallmark-lohan.htmlimdb.com/title/tt29378386/ Thanks to our Sponsors: landroverusa.comrhone.com/calshopify.com/deepdrinklmnt.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 333Ep. 333: New Year Course Correction
Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: 4 Pieces of Advice to Start 2025 [2:14]- How do I stop doom-scrolling before bed? [32:47]- What is the role of craft in Cal’s “Deep Life Stack 2.0” idea? [36:09]- How do I save money? [41:04]- Do writers need social media audiences? [50:12]- How should I make the most of 90 minutes of commute time? [53:57]- CALL: Life after a career in law [57:31]CASE STUDY: A digital declutter with LinkedIn? [1:01:53]TECH CORNER: Is Social Media Like Dying Malls? (A Debate) [1:07:46]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?honest-broker.com/p/are-social-media-platforms-the-nextThanks to our Sponsors:landroverusa.comzbiotics.com/deepeightsleep.com/deepThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 332Ep. 332: Jesse Takeover!
Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia- Who are Cal’s “must read” writers? [6:03]- Does Cal think he can get better at writing? [13:37]- When does Cal find time for academic papers? [24:09]- How do you get unstuck? [26:44]- How should students pick a college? [34:04]- What is Cal’s shutdown ritual? [43:00]- Does Cal think about retirement? [48:00]- CAL REACTS: Elon and Twitter [54:30]- Is cal still using his ReMarkable? [1:03:17]- What’s Cal’s post-mortem on his latest book? [1:08:10]FINAL SEGMENT: Checking in on Cal’s New Year Plan [1:26:10]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?washingtonpost.com/business/interactive/2024/see-how-elon-musks-online-audience-dwarfs-donald-trumps/?itid=hp_world-biz-tech_p006_f008Thanks to our Sponsors:notion.com/caldrinklmnt.com/deepblinkist.com/deepzbiotics.com/deepThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 332IN-DEPTH: The Comfort Crisis (w/ Michael Easter)
In this episode of IN-DEPTH, Cal welcomes the bestselling author Michael Easter to talk about the importance of embracing discomfort in the quest to cultivate a deep life. Drawing from Michael’s two books, THE COMFORT CRISIS and SCARCITY BRAIN, as well as Michael’s personal journey from an unhappy office worker with an alcohol problem to a full-time writer who enjoys daily hikes in the desert, Cal and Michael get into the weeds of our human wiring and what it feels like to build an intentional life.Video from today’s episode: https://www.youtube.com/calnewportmediaINTERVIEW: Bestselling author Michael Easter [5:56]Links:https://www.landroverusa.comhttps://www.calnewport.com/slowThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the theme music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 331Ep. 331: Money and the Deep Life
One of the most important but often overlooked elements of cultivating a deep life is the role of money. In this episode, Cal takes a contrarian look at this topic, arguing that the monetary cost of your vision is not actually the most important metric. He then answers listener questions and reacts to an article that many people sent him this past week.Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: Money and the Deep Life [3:17]- How can I tame my wandering mind when reading? [23:34]- How should I schedule time blocks as a real estate agent? [27:21]- How can I improve my quarterly planning? [32:33]- How can I balance intense motivation with finding inner peace? [38:29] - How can a jobseeker demonstrate actual productivity? [45:37]- CALL: Trying to do more with a newborn [53:34]CASE STUDY: A 39-year-old juggling school and work [1:00:18]CAL REACTS: ‘Brain Rot’ [1:12:51]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?corp.oup.com/news/brain-rot-named-oxford-word-of-the-year-2024/youtu.be/mHU_K1o3B-4?si=Tsk1GEgzrhlCiaGw Thanks to our Sponsors:mintmobile.com/deepshopify.com/deepexpressvpn.com/deeppolicygenius.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 330Ep. 330: Tackling Social Media’s Hidden Dangers
Australia recently passed a world-first law banning social media use for kids under the age of 16. In this episode, Cal looks carefully at the arguments in favor and against this new law before detailing his thoughts. He then connects this specific argument to all of our larger battles to tame technology’s impact in our lives. This is followed by listener questions and a review of the books Cal read in November.Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: Tackling Social Media’s Hidden Dangers [2:08]- How do I find friends now that I don’t use social media? [37:13]- Is continuous hard activity desirable? [42:47]- How does Cal research his books and articles? [46:49]CASE STUDY: A Phone Addict Seeks a Fresh Start [51:08] - How does the idea of the idea of the deep life “Longer Short Way” connect to Slow Productivity? [1:02:07]FINAL SEGMENT: The 5 Books Cal Read in November, 2024 [1:10:34]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?cnn.com/2024/11/28/australia/australia-passes-social-media-law-intl-hnk/index.htmlapnews.com/article/australia-social-media-children-ban-safeguarding-harm-accounts-d0cde2603bdbc7167801da1d00ecd056Thanks to our Sponsorsmybodytutor.comcozyearth.com/deepdrinklmnt.com/deepbyloftie.com (use code: DEEP20)Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 330IN-DEPTH: Greatness vs. Contentment (w/ Kendra Adachi)
This IN-DEPTH is brought to you by Defender. In this episode of IN-DEPTH, Cal welcomes the bestselling author Kendra Adachi to talk about her new book, THE PLAN, which introduces the innovative idea of “compassionate time management.” Kendra and Cal discuss how to move beyond the forever pursuit of “greatness” to instead seek satisfaction in your current life; the ways in which time management and productivity writing ignores the specific concerns of women; and why flexibility and pivoting are more important skills than precise planning. Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaLinks:https://www.landroverusa.comhttps://www.calnewport.com/slowThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the theme music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 329Ep. 329: The Tao of Cal
We cover a lot of advice on this podcast, covering a lot of different topics. In today’s episode, Cal takes on the challenge of summarizing every big idea he promotes in less than five minutes. He then provides some theoretical connective tissue to explain how they all connect. This is followed by reader questions and a rant about “productivity.” Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: The Tao of Cal [2:53] - Why is time blocking more demanding than using a weekly template? [25:04] - Is moving to the country a bad idea? [29:54] - How can I consolidate my email accounts without being stressed out? [34:47] - What’s the best approach to read for general knowledge? [36:20] - How do I apply Slow Productivity without losing career capital? [43:12] - CALL: Should I adjust my deep life lifestyle? [45:58] CASE STUDY: Cultivating the deep work muscle [56:38] CAL REACTS (e.g., Rants): “Productivity” Tracking Software [1:05:58] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?reddit.com/r/sysadmin/comments/1gwg7rk/employee_monitoring_software_has_gone_off_the/?rdt=41693 Thanks to our Sponsors: This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/deepquestionszocdoc.com/deepgrammarly.com/podcastshopify.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 328Ep. 328: Analog Mode
There’s a video trending on the internet at the moment arguing that its audience (presumably, young men) should disappear from the world to focus on going “beast mode” on their goals. Cal takes a closer look at this video and argues that it points toward a much larger issue – a mismatch between the modern digital environment and our human brains – that affects all of us. He then answers listener questions and calls and concludes with a tech corner segment. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: Analog Mode [2:39] - How do I go about restructuring my life after a shake-up? [29:50] - Should I take breaks from my AirPods? [36:03] - How can I adopt the discipline ladder to “multi-scale” planning? [38:54] - How do I regain a sense of time in a period of isolation and challenge? [43:41] - Should I quit some of my side projects? [48:50] - CALL: How should I time block on sabbatical? [55:27] CASE STUDY: Building Studio Z [1:03:18] TECH CORNER: Section 230 and Poison Pills [1:15:10] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?youtube.com/watch?v=p5a7whN1k64promarket.org/2020/12/13/liberals-conservatives-wrong-section-230-reform-repeal/ Thanks to our Sponsors: eightsleep.com/deepzbiotics.com/deepblinkist.com/deepdrinklmnt.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 327Ep. 327: Would Kant Use TikTok?
Almost everyone feels uneasy about their relationships with their smartphones. But the question is why? In today’s episode, Cal looks past the most common answers to seek a deeper understanding built on an unexpected source: the moral philosophy of Immanuel Kant. He then answers listener questions and ends the show with another edition of the tech corner segment. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: Would Kant Use TikTok? [6:13] - Do “distraction free” apps work? [30:36] - How can I finish what I start? [34:24] - Is context shifting slowing down my work as a teacher? [37:42] - How should I organize my official podcast duties with my traditional teaching requirements? [43:08] - Is “slow living” and “slow productivity" the same thing? [49:00] - CALL: Deep work blocks in the afternoon [55:58] CASE STUDY: Re-designing a life with a new job [1:00:07] TECH CORNER: How do recommendation algorithms work? [1:11:00] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? youtu.be/SeZ1YOgbz18?si=kuCksvy_dGoOfx8Q Thanks to our Sponsors: shopify.com/deep drinklmnt.com/deep expressvpn.com/deep mintmoblie.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 326Ep. 326: Time to Unplug
During the election season our devices take a particularly hard tole on our health and happiness. Now that the votes have been cast and counted, Cal proposes it’s time to take a temporary but radical break from the exhausting digital chatter. He then answers questions from his listeners and discusses Martha Stewart and the problems of “aesthetic productivity.”Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: Time to Unplug [2:49]- How do I organize all the information in my life? [39:04]- How can I do a side hustle if it’s against company policy? [42:23]- What is “Humanist Productivity”? [48:46]- Should I use a flip phone in college? [57:05]- How can I work at a natural place in a software company? [1:01:27]- CALL: Oliver Burkeman and imperfectionism [1:08:32]CASE STUDY: Managing with slow productivity [1:13:16] CAL REACTS: Martha Stewart’s Productivity Tips [1:21:36]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?calnewport.com/after-you-vote-unplug/today.com/shop/martha-stewart-shares-her-favorite-tips-staying-organized-t171345Thanks to our Sponsors: mybodytutor.comcozyearth.com/deepnotion.com/calrhone.com/calThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 325Ep. 325: Simple Focus Protocols
A common theme on this show is the importance of focus and the need to train the ability. This can be a long term project, but are there things you can do right away to improve your ability to concentrate? In this episode, Cal explores five easy ideas that will immediately improve your focus ability. He then answers listener questions and reviews the books he read in October 2024. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: Simple Focus Protocols [2:09] - Can I time-block my personal time if it’s more busy than work? [25:57] - How do I prioritize when I have so much I want to do? [29:46] - How can I do deep work to increase my job skills if my days are filled with meetings? [34:50] - What are your all-time favorite books? [39:25] - How can I apply the principles of Slow Productivity as a business owner with multiple projects? [44:41] - CALL: Eyeglasses as a proxy for meaningful effort [49:39] FINAL SEGMENT: The 5 Books Cal Read in October 2024 [59:01] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? Thanks to our Sponsors: This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/deepquestions grammarly.com/podcast zocdoc.com/deepshopify.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 324Ep. 324: Taming Non-Work Tasks
We talk a lot on this show about how to organize your professional efforts. But what about all your obligations outside of work? The personal goals, the household repairs, the family tasks? In this episode, Cal discusses organizational strategies custom-fit to these types of obligations. He then answers listener questions and checks in on a hidden trend in the world of technology. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: Taming Non-Work Tasks [4:48] - How do you manage unexpected projects in your time management system? [26:57] - How can I implement lifestyle-centric planning if my life has been directed by other people? [29:36] - How do you figure out what your rare and valuable skill is? [33:57] - Should I return to social media to promote my new book? [37:30] - How can I do fewer things if I’m expected to bill 40 client hours every week? [46:23] - CALL: Hiring an administrative assistant [50:08] CASE STUDY: A software developer’s “pull” system [57:35] TECH CORNER: The Quiet Revolution [1:08:34] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? newyorker.com/culture/photo-booth/the-frightening-familiarity-of-late-nineties-office-photos youtube.com/watch?v=-lRkCbhABvo Thanks to our Sponsors: blinkist.com/deepnotion.com/calzbiotics.com/caldrinklmnt.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 323Ep. 323: Strategic Procrastination
One of the most common complaints from people attempting to cultivate a deep life in our distracted world is procrastination. You want to make regular progress on something important but find you just can’t get going. In this episode, Cal discusses a less well understood cause of some procrastination and offers unconventional advice for facing it. He also answers listener questions and reacts to an article about a famous author’s unexpected regret. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: Strategic Procrastination [4:46] - Should I change my job? [20:28] - Should I automate my busy work? [24:20] - How can I speed up my reading? [27:01] - Should I quit my job to get my PhD? [31:41] - My team of 3 has 37 open projects. How do we avoid burnout? [43:29] - CALL: An engineering student’s commute [50:52] CASE STUDY: Doing a master’s later in life [59:50] CAL REACTS: Anne Patchett’s Biggest Regret [1:09:40] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?nytimes.com/2024/10/15/opinion/ann-patchett-regret-email.html Thanks to our Sponsors: drinklmnt.com/deepshopify.com/deeppolicygenius.com/deepquestionsmintmobile.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 324IN-DEPTH:The Productivity Trap (w/ Oliver Burkeman)
In this episode of IN-DEPTH, a semi-regular interview series with people at the frontiers of deep living, Cal welcomes the bestselling author Oliver Burkeman to the Deep Work HQ to talk about his new book, MEDITATIONS FOR MORTALS, and more generally the tension between wanting to get your act together and becoming unhealthily obsessed with productivity.Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaINTERVIEW: New York Times best seller Oliver Burkeman [3:40]Links:https://www.calnewport.com/slowThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the theme music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 322Ep. 322: The Discipline Ladder
Do you struggle to consistently make progress on hard things that are important to you? In today’s episode, Cal describes a way to improve this state of affairs: a systematic training regime called the discipline ladder. He then answers listener questions about their own struggles with discipline and reacts to an article claiming that professors are lazy (gasp!). Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: The Discipline Ladder [4:29] - How can I overcome procrastination? [24:42] - How can I make my daily metrics more personal? [27:16] - How can I get my discipline back on track after a negative event? [32:47] - How can I be more disciplined to find time for my part-time project? [39:50] - How can my organization adopt slow productivity principles? [43:49] - CALL: Process centered emails [50:41] CASE STUDY: Leveraging Career Capital [58:02] CAL REACTS: Are Professor’s Lazy? [1:07:19] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?city-journal.org/article/professor-mianewyorker.com/culture/annals-of-inquiry/what-kind-of-writer-is-chatgpt Thanks to our Sponsors: mybodytutor.comexpressvpn.com/deeprhone.com/calcozyearth.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 321Ep. 321: Escaping Your Phone
It has become second nature to maintain a continuous partial participation in the world of digital networks. In today’s episode, Cal reflects on a week in which he spent too much time online, and argues why this continuous partial participation is dehumanizing, and what you can do to escape. He then takes questions and calls from listeners and reviews the five books he read in September. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: How Your Phone Is Changing You [1:43] - How do I teach my bosses to be deeper? [28:34] - How can I focus as a doctor when I have to keep switching from one patient to the next?” [35:46] - How do I overcome notebook overwhelm? [39:13] - Can “creativity” be added to the deep life buckets? [40:47] - How do I overcome the guilt of no longer being pseudo-productive? [44:51] - CALL: The Pomodoro Technique and overcoming distraction [49:33] CASE STUDY: A 39-year-old changes careers [54:21] FINAL SEGMENT: The 5 Books Cal Read in September 2024 [1:02:50] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? Thanks to our Sponsors: This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/deepquestionszocdoc.com/deepshopify.com/deepzbiotics.com/cal Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 320Ep. 320: Jobs and the Deep Life
One of the single most important factors in your attempts to cultivate a deep life is your job. Yet, many people don’t give much thought to the role their work will play in their conception of a life well-lived. In this episode, Cal looks deeper at this topic. He starts by outlining four common traps people fall into when thinking about their work and happiness, then offers an alternative model that works better. He continues by answering listener questions about jobs and happiness, and ends with a look at Robert Caro’s writing shack.Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: Jobs and the Deep Life [3:43]- How can I tame my 12-hour work days? [26:25]- Should I worry about having too many daily metrics? [29:49]- How can I create an inspiring deep work environment if I work out of my car? [33:24]- How can I remain accessible to my kid's daycare without being constantly distracted? [35:36] - How can I use the principles of slow productivity for my MBA studies? [39:58]- CALL: Applying Cal’s principles as a new parent [45:49]CASE STUDY: Focused work for a PhD program [51:37] CAL REACTS: Robert Caro’s Budget Writing Shack [1:01:18]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?tumblr.austinkleon.com/post/761805215728009216/in-the-shack-with-robert-caro-he-bought-the-prefabThanks to our Sponsors: notion.com/calmintmobile.com/deeporacle.com/deepquestionslandroverusa.comThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 320IN-DEPTH: Systematic Depth (w/ Ryan Holiday)
In this episode of IN-DEPTH, a new semi-regular interview series with people at the frontiers of deep living, Cal interviews bestselling author Ryan Holiday about the systematic construction of an intentional life. They begin by talking about lessons from Ryan’s new book. RIGHT THING, RIGHT NOW, then go deep on Ryan’s own journey from a college drop-out working in a Hollywood talent agency to becoming a fully independent and massively successful writer and media personality.Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaINTERVIEW: Mega-bestselling writer Ryan Holiday [3:33]Links:https://www.calnewport.com/slowThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the theme music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 319Ep. 319: Reclaim Your Time
Why can you never seem to find enough time to make progress on the non-urgent but important priorities that can move you closer to the ideal of the deep life? In this episode, Cal reviews three common “time destroyers,” and for each offers solutions to fight back. He then takes questions and calls from his listeners and ends with a discussion of Amazon and the bureaucracy mailbox. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: Reclaim Your Time [3:43] - Is Agile compatible with slow productivity? [34:20] - How can I better structure my days as a master’s student with a job? [36:37] - How often and in what medium should I check my calendar? [42:43] - On days when I have no time, does reading for 20 minutes actually do anything? [46:52] - Will slow productivity make me less ambitious? [52:16] - CALL: Different types of Deep Work [58:04] CASE STUDY: A teacher’s shutdown ritual [1:03:55] CAL REACTS: A Bureaucracy Mailbox [1:10:24] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?aboutamazon.com/news/company-news/ceo-andy-jassy-latest-update-on-amazon-return-to-office-manager-team-ratioThanks to our Sponsors: drinklmnt.com/deepgreenlight.com/deepexpressvpn.com/deepshopify.com/deepThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 318Ep. 318: Take a Break
One of the more viral suggestions from Cal’s recent book, SLOW PRODUCTIVITY, was to occasionally skip out of work to see a movie. In this episode, Cal dives deep into criticisms of this advice and decodes what this tells us about where knowledge work is faltering and how we can make things better. He then answers questions from listeners and reacts to some productivity advice given from a well-known CEO. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: [7:47] - Can I work deeply in my chaotic job? [27:17] - Can I use my inbox as a task list? [31:36] - How do you look at travel within your plans for a deep life? [35:12] - How can I get my partner to stop talking about work? [41:14] - How do I practice slow productivity with health issues? [44:54] - CALL: How can I decide on what career path to pursue? [49:14] CASE STUDY: Switching careers after a 20 year law stint [56:11] CAL REACTS: The CEO Who Swears by Time Blocking [1:05:04] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?cnbc.com/2024/05/09/want-to-boost-your-productivity-hit-the-movies-during-work-expert-says.htmlcnbc.com/amp/2024/09/09/whole-foods-ceo-swears-by-time-blocking-to-boost-productivity.html Thanks to our Sponsors: mybodytutor.comblinkist.com/deepcozyearth.com/deeprhone.com/cal Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 317Ep. 317: The 10-Year Rule
Becoming notably good at something valuable is one of the most powerful tools for crafting a deep life. But how do people do this? In this episode, Cal explores three useful rules for getting good in search of depth. He then answers listener questions and reacts to a remarkable collection of advice from almost seven decades ago. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: The 10-Year Rule [2:29] - Why can’t I succeed with Cal’s time management system? [32:03] - Can RSS feeds make “fast content” slow? [39:06] - Can persuading people be considered deep work? [45:05] - How can I guide my teenage son towards a deep life? [47:05] - How do I find time to launch my new business? [49:53] - CALL: Testing a book idea without social media [55:04] CASE STUDY: A professional athlete utilizing career capital [1:06:10] CAL REACTS: C.S. Lewis’s Advice for Writers [1:15:32] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?texasmonthly.com/arts-entertainment/ryan-holiday-stoic-king-bastrop-painted-porch/youtube.com/watch?v=hB3tBI-KNLktwitter.com/InfiniteB88ks/status/1824108211081019821Thanks to our Sponsors: shopify.com/deepdrinklmnt.com/deepexpressvpn.com/deepfactor.com/deep50Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 316Ep. 316: Weekly Templates
The fall is the perfect time to tune up your productivity and organizational systems. With this in mind, in this episode, Cal discusses a tool he has long used in his own life but never discussed before in public: the weekly template. He then answers questions on the theme of personal productivity from listeners and reviews the books he read in August. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: Weekly Templates [3:29]- How does Cal schedule his evening writing sessions? [26:08]- How can I leverage my current career capital to become an entrepreneur? [30:30]- How do I find time for non-urgent but interesting deep work? [35:59]- Is afternoon deep work possible? [39:16]- Can I use slow productivity to help prepare for a job interview? [45:49]- CALL: How do I not be reactionary during my busy season? [51:42]CASE STUDY: Using Cal’s toolkit while working in the Peace Corps [56:52]FINAL SEGMENT: The 5 Books Cal Read in August 2024 [1:06:05]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?Thanks to our Sponsors: This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/deepquestionszocdoc.com/deepnotion.com/calladderlife.com/deepThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 315Ep. 315: The Surprising Myth of Doing Less
In this classic episode, Cal talks about the surprising myth of doing less. Cal then answers questions about discipline and solving complicated problems. Cal concludes the episode with a review of the books he read back in April 2022. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: The Surprising Math of Doing Less [3:33]- How do I improve my discipline? [20:01]- How do you break down a complicated problem? [31:04] - CALL: Has Cal read “Stolen Focus”? [34:07]The Books I Read in April 2022 [40:28]LISTENER CALL: Playbook for writing in The New Yorker [1:05:30]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?Thanks to our Sponsors: drinklmnt.com/deepindeed.com/deepshopify.com/deepfactormeals.com/deep50Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 314Ep. 314: Elements of the Deep Life
In this classic episode Cal talks about the elements of the Deep Life. He then answers a variety of questions about work, family, and phone distractions.Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: The Elements of the Deep Life [2:31] - How should I get started in a new remote work job? [17:39] - How I time block a purely reactive job? [22:49] - Should I bother capturing tasks that are fast to complete? [26:20] - How do I tame multiple concurrent projects? [29:53] - How do I schedule optional deep work in an exhausting job? [32:51] - How much time is left for family after goals and deep work? [39:56] - Is there such a thing as deep fun? [42:44] - I am addicted to my phone. What do I do? [44:48] - How do I make a big life decision when I have lots of options? [50:35] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? Thanks to our Sponsors: cozyearth.com/cal mintmobile.com/deep policygenius.com/deepquestions blinkist.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 313Ep. 313: Structured Journaling
Summer is the perfect time to ready yourself for significant changes in your life. A chance to seek more depth in a distracted world. But for many, the goal for these changes is unclear. They know they want something deeper, but they don’t know what exactly that is. In this episode, Cal describes a method called structured journaling that can help you clarify your vision for what you seek. He then answers readers’ questions and ends with a final segment in which reacts to a provocative claim by Jon M. Chu, the director of the new WICKED film adaptation.Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: Structured journaling [6:10]- What does Cal think of goal planning systems? [30:32]- How can college students cultivate a deep life? [32:44]- Can I live a deep life as a lawyer? [40:19]- How does Cal keep track of the books he wants to read? [46:19]- I finish all my work in a single day. Is this unethical? [49:15]- How do I cultivate a deep life in a busy career? [53:11]- CALL: Should I leave a perfect job? [56:54]CASE STUDY: Career capital theory in action [1:02:38]FINAL SEGMENT: Jon M. Chu on Creativity and Hard Work [1:10:05]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?nature.com/articles/d41586-024-02540-0nature.com/articles/d41586-024-02381-xThanks to our Sponsors:grammarly.com/podcastmybodytutor.comrhone.com/calshopify.com/deepThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 312Ep. 312: Productivity Basics
It’s mid-summer, people have some extra breathing room in their schedule, they’re relaxed. This moment of quiet seems like a perfect time to revisit some of this show’s most popular ideas about finding productivity in a world drowning in digital distractions. In this episode, Cal reviews his five most effective productivity related ideas. He then answers reader questions and reviews the seven books he read in July 2024. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: Productivity Basics [2:55]- How closely should I schedule my leisure activities? [46:32]- How do I time block a day that lasts longer than 11 hours? [51:57]- Can I save mental energy at work to be more alive outside of work? [58:59]- How do I actually motivate myself to execute the work I planned? [1:04:38]- Am I obsessing over the right things for promotion? [1:10:16]- CALL: Dealing with AI driven calendars [1:16:29]FINAL SEGMENT: The 7 Books Cal Read in July 2024 [1:26:11] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newportCal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? Thanks to our Sponsors: This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/deepquestionszocdoc.com/deepexpressvpn.com/deepdrinklmnt.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 311Ep. 311: Finding Focus in Distracting Times
In our current digital world, distracting world events have a way of completely destabilizing our ability to focus on work that matters. In today’s episode, Cal provides advice for escaping these destabilizing attention environments and regaining some sense of mental peace and depth. He then answers questions, takes a call, and reports on some fun sightings of his book Deep Work out in the wild. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: Finding focus in distracting times [7:06] - How can I convince my boss to stop interrupting me? [34:05] - Should I switch jobs? [41:13] - How do I integrate unpredictable calls into an otherwise structured schedule? [43:38] - What’s the ideal reading ratio of difficult to easy books? [47:25] - I just turned 30. Am I too late to apply the slow productivity principles? [50:32] CASE STUDY: Using lifestyle-centered career planning to improve work and pursue a hobby [57:07] CALL: Switching roles to an unstructured team [1:02:06] CAL REACTS: Two Wild Deep Work Sightings [1:11:45] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? nytimes.com/interactive/2024/books/authors-top-books-21st-century.html Thanks to our Sponsors: oracle.com/deepquestions indeed.com/deep notion.com/cal shopify.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 310Ep. 310: Rethinking Discipline
Discipline is critical to cultivating a deep life, but what exactly does this concept mean? In this episode, Cal uses a concrete case study from Reddit to dive deeper into the nuances of discipline and to then identify concrete, practical advice for improving your ability to take disciplined action. He then answers listener questions and asks for Jesse’s judgment on a battle of the writing sheds. Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode: https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep Dive: Rethinking Discipline [5:44] - Should I work harder at finding a job? [36:13] - How can I measure the Discipline layer of the Deep Life Stack? [39:38] - How do I stay off my phone in times of stress? [44:34] - How can I regain the control over my phone that I once had in college? [48:44] - Does Cal only write on a laptop to avoid distractions? [51:54] - How can a new knowledge worker apply the slow productivity principles when starting a new job? [58:13] CASE STUDY: Shifting jobs between teaching and administration [1:04:10] FINAL SEGMENT: Battle of the Sheds [1:12:01] Links: Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? reddit.com/r/LifeProTips/comments/15sjr2h/lpt_request_how_to_stop_favoring_short_term/ ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2958859/ sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/06/240607121448.htm english.elpais.com/lifestyle/2024-07-06/cal-newport-the-man-who-never-procrastinates.html Thanks to our Sponsors: mintmobile.com/deep rhone.com/cal greenlight.com/deep blinkist.com/deep Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 309Ep. 309: Deep Habits
On this show, we often talk about major overhauls to your work and life. In this episode, we go the other way and focus on the small habits that can make a big difference. In more detail, Cal describes eight surprisingly small strategies – four focused on work and four focused on life outside of work – for finding more depth in a distracted world. He then answers listener questions and reacts to a recent article about pushback to calls to limiting social media for kids.Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Habits [2:46]- Can I keep my weekly plan in my workingmemory.txt file? [31:13]- Do you experience any pleasure during deep work? [33:39]- How many deep work sessions should I do each working week? [38:23]- How can I prioritize my goals in my personal life? [40:58]- Does the suggestion to “limit daily goals” conflict with time blocking? [44:09] CASE STUDY: Building my career around a desired lifestyle [45:53]CAL REACTS: Countering Pushback to Limiting Social Media for Kids [54:26] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?washingtonpost.com/opinions/2024/06/27/social-media-warning-label-surgeon-general-counterarguments/english.elpais.com/lifestyle/2024-07-06/cal-newport-the-man-who-never-procrastinates.html Thanks to our Sponsors: grammarly.com/podcastcozyearth.com/calmybodytutor.comdrinklmnt.com/deepThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 308Ep. 308: The Power of the Quiet Mind
One of the trickiest aspects of new technology is that it can sometimes destabilize parts of our lives that we didn’t even realize existed and are important. In this episode, Cal talks about one such idea: the quiet mind. Our constant phone usage is eliminating this critical cognitive state, and by doing so is diminishing our humanity. Cal makes the case for the importance of the quiet mind, and then gives concrete ideas for cultivating it in a distracted world. He also answers questions from listeners and reviews the five books he read in June.Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: The Power of the Quiet Mind [3:58]- What are the benefits of walking meditation? [29:13]- How can a new dad find time to advance his career? [34:16]- How do I manage a temporary increase in admin responsibilities? [38:48]- How can my son organize his sports and school schedule? [43:31]- How can I do less when my colleagues are getting ahead for doing more? [45:54]- CALL: Pre-scheduling with a pull system [51:14] CASE STUDY: Collaborating with colleagues to effectively do hard work [57:54]FINAL SEGMENT: The 5 Books Cal Read in June 2024 [1:08:05]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slowGet a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?Thanks to our Sponsors:indeed.com/deepnotion.com/calshopify.com/deepexpressvpn.com/deepThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 307Ep. 307: Ultra-Processed Content
Why are we comfortable with the idea that ultra-processed foods are bad for us but feel somehow anti-technology to say something similar about the ultra-processed content generated by social media platforms. In this episode, Cal draws analogy to the food system to find a more sustainable and practical way to repair our relationship with various forms of media. He then answers questions and calls, shares an inspiring case study, and, due to popular request, gives his opinion on Jonathan Haidt’s new book, THE ANXIOUS GENERATION.Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: https://bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: Ultra-Processed Content [2:11]- How would Cal update his college books to deal with the modern day technology distractions? [28:38]- How can I introduce more balance into my highly focused life? [34:56]- Is it ok to play Candy Crush while listening to podcasts? [42:23]- How do I find time for deep thinking in a distracted life? [45:26]- How can I work deeper in a shallow pond? [49:48]- CALL: Using extended periods of time to plan [57:36] CASE STUDY: Making a career change with a safety net [1:00:29]CAL REACTS: The Anxious Generation [1:10:20]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at www.calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?https://calnewport.com/on-ultra-processed-content/Thanks to our Sponsors: This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at https://www.betterhelp.com/deepquestionshttps://www.zocdoc.com/deephttps://www.drinklmnt.com/deephttps://www.ladder.com/deepThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 306Ep. 306: Defusing AI Panic
One of the simmering concerns surrounding the current AI revolution is the fear that we might accidentally create an “alien mind” smarter than we expected. In this episode, Cal puts on his Computer Scientist hat and directly addresses this potential by sketching his emerging concept of intentional artificial intelligence (or, iAI for short). He then answers tech-themed questions from listeners and reacts to an article that many, many different people sent to him last week.Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: Defusing AI Panic [5:23]- Will A.I. agents spread misinformation on a large scale? [46:31]- Is lack of good measurement and evaluation for A.I. systems a major problem? [51:16] - Is the development of A.I. the biggest thing to happen in technology since the internet? [56:50]- How do I balance a 30 day declutter with my overall technology use? [1:00:40]- How do I convince my team that prioritizing quality over quantity will help them get promotions? [1:07:46]- CALL: Distributed trust models and social media [1:13:12] CASE STUDY: Using Deep Work and Slow Productivity to engineer a better work situation [1:22:55]CAL REACTS: Employees fired for using “mouse jigglers” [1:32:03]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?v=448bf8afad0740d18f6b109b4bd40d51 axios.com/2024/06/18/wells-fargo-mouse-jiggler-fired-employee-productivitynytimes.com/2023/03/24/opinion/yuval-harari-ai-chatgpt.htmlarxiv.org/pdf/2303.12712 Thanks to our Sponsors: moshlife.com/deepshopify.com/deepgrammarly.com/podcastrhone.com/calThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 305Ep. 305: Is Time Blocking Oppressive?
Oliver Burkeman recently noted that time blocking seems oppressive? In this episode, Cal responds to this reaction in a surprising way. He then answers questions from listeners and reacts to this podcast being featured at the recent Apple WWDC event.Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: Is Time Blocking Oppressive? [2:38]- Can Cal elaborate on his experience with his Acceptance and Commitment therapy? [26:46]- How can I sustain my deep life program? [35:03]- How can I stop my girlfriend from always checking her phone? [38:07]- How long are your time blocks in your planner? [43:07]- How do I obsess over quality with filling into procrastination? [47:07]- CALL: Getting back on track after travel [55:10] CASE STUDY: Adopting principles from Cal’s book to design my life [1:00:11]CAL REACTS: Deep Questions featured at Apple’s WWDC! [1:10:32] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ Cal’s monthly book directory: bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?v=448bf8afad0740d18f6b109b4bd40d51 shows.acast.com/farewell/episodes/045-the-reason-you-cant-ever-get-through-your-to-do-list-witdeveloper.apple.com/videos/play/wwdc2024/102/ Thanks to our Sponsors: drinklmnt.com/deepcozyearth.com/calmintmobile.com/deeppolicygenius.com/deepThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 304Ep. 304: Seinfeld on The Deep Life
In a recent interview, held to promote his new Netflix movie, Jerry Seinfeld went on a remarkable 10-minute run in which he rattled off one insight after another about deep work, procrastination, and the quest to live an intentional life in a distracted world. In this episode, Cal extracts four key lessons from this segment of Jerry’s interview. He then takes listener questions and ends with a segment in which he apologizes to an internet personality whom he incorrectly associated with the dreaded “hustle culture.”Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: Seinfeld on The Deep Life [4:31]- Do I need to practice outside of work to improve my craft? [30:26]- Can I tackle learning goals sequentially? [38:44]- How do I get through “grinding” at work? [43:10]- How can I build my craft to grow my YouTube channel? [49:56]- Can Cal talk about being an assistant professor with young kids? [54:49] CASE STUDY: Using lifestyle-centric career planning to upgrade my job and life [1:00:09]CAL REACTS: James Scholz studies twelve hours a day [1:05:19]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ youtube.com/watch?v=TXAvkqXD-Fcyoutube.com/c/jamesscholz Thanks to our Sponsors: drinklmnt.com/deepblinkist.com/deepmybodytutor.comshopify.com/deepThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 303Ep. 303: The Problem with Grand Goals
The desire to cultivate a more intentional and remarkable existence – what we call “the deep life” – is universal. In today’s episode, Cal talks about one of the most common traps in this pursuit: hoping that the achievement of a singular grand goal will make all parts of your life better. Cal discusses the problems with the grand goal approach and argues why the more systematic lifestyle-centric mindset will not only produce better results, but end up leading to remarkable opportunities anyway. He then takes questions and calls from readers and reviews the five books he read in May.Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: How to create a deep life [9:55]- Is it too late to start living deep at the age of 27? [31:29]- Is it possible to cultivate a deep life at a job that requires full attention? [36:05]- How come there are different Deep Life Stacks? [38:57]- How do I cultivate a deep life with small children? [46:40]- Do I need to “limit my missions” if I have a standard day job? [54:40]- CALL: Keeping focus after having children [58:28]CASE STUDY: Finding books to help cultivate a deep life [1:12:18]FINAL SEGMENT: The 5 Books Cal Read in May 2024 [1:22:47]Science and Human Values (J. Bronowski)The Hot Zone (Richard Preston)Extinction (Douglas Preston)When the Shooting Stops…the Cutting Begins (Ralph Rosenbaum and Robert Karen)The Great Partnership (Jonathan Sacks)Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ Thanks to our Sponsors: This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/deepquestionszocdoc.com/deepexpressvpn.com/deepnotion.com/calThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 302Ep. 302: Re-Enchanting Work
We talk a lot on this show about how to organize and execute your work, but not enough about where to do it. In this episode, Cal explores the theory and practice of “adventure working,” in which you escape to novel and inspiring locations to tackle your most demanding and interesting cognitive efforts. He then answers reader questions about habits and rituals, before ending with a critical look at a famous football club’s distressing embrace of pseudo-productivity.Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: Re-Enchanting Work [5:39]- What are Cal’s health habits? [31:12]- What’s the difference between discipline and rituals? [34:08]- How does Cal read so much? [37:37]- What are Cal’s writing-related rituals? [40:44]- Should I go slow in my job hunting? [45:05]- CALL: Working at a natural pace as a teacher [49:47]- CALL: How to navigate the “pull system” [54:31]CASE STUDY: Organizing files in a household [1:00:57]CAL REACTS: Manchester’s United’s Pseudo-Productivity [1:11:13] Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ calnewport.com/adventure-studying-an-unconventional-new-approach-to-exam-preperation/calnewport.com/bonus-post-an-adventure-studying-case-study/instagram.com/p/B1y5dV3HSC9/?igshid=1r2acwbmfztewapcc.org/pond-stories-mary-olivers-blackwater-pond-provincetown/scottishfield.co.uk/scotland-travel/the-black-heart-of-scots-crime-writer-ian-rankin/calnewport.com/the-power-of-the-outdoor-office/calnewport.com/deep-habits-my-office-in-the-woods/theguardian.com/football/article/2024/may/08/sir-jim-ratcliffe-manchester-united-remote-work-ban-email-traffictheatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2024/02/hybrid-work-attention-productivity/677598/ Thanks to our Sponsors: shopify.com/deepblinkist.com/deeplistening.com/deepdrinklmnt.com/deepThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 301Ep. 301: Reclaiming Time and Focus (w/ Jordan Harbinger)
In this episode, the proverbial tables are turned, with Cal being interviewed by Jordan Harbinger about time, focus, and the quest for a slower notion of productivity. (This interview originally aired as episode 975 Jordan's can’t-miss podcast, The Jordan Harbinger Show).Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmedia- INTERVIEW: Cal being interviewed by Jordan Harbinger [1:54]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at www.calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ Thanks to our Sponsors: mintmobile.com/deepgrammarly.com/podcastlandroverusa.com/defenderrhone.com/calThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ep 300Ep. 300: Hidden Technology Traps
There has been a lot of attention paid recently to the impact of technology like social media on the mental health of young people. But this is not the only technology trap lurking for this generation. In this episode, Cal talks about three subtle but significant ways in which our current technology culture is setting up young people for professional failure in the years ahead. He then provides some advice for resisting this fate. In addition to this discussion, he answers questions from the audience and reacts to one of the coolest examples of slow craft that he’s encountered in a long while.Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). Get your questions answered by Cal! Here’s the link: bit.ly/3U3sTvoVideo from today’s episode: youtube.com/calnewportmediaDeep Dive: The Burnout Society [7:53]- How can I stop distraction relapses? [35:18]- How can I reduce my social media addiction without abandoning these technologies? [39:37]- How can I schedule deep work with a scattered class schedule? [44:29]- How should I reintroduce video games after a successful digital declutter? [47:14]- How do I apply Slow Productivity later in life? [51:04]- CALL: How to formulate a deep life when you’re young [54:41] CASE STUDY: Tweaking the time block planner [1:06:44] CAL REACTS: A Slow Reconstruction of an Ancient City [1:11:00]Links:Buy Cal’s latest book, “Slow Productivity” at calnewport.com/slow Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEJ4hkpQW8Ewww.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/research/report/2023-cs-smartphone-research-report_final-for-web.pdftenochtitlan.thomaskole.nl/Thanks to our Sponsors: drinklmnt.com/deepcozyearth.com/calexpressvpn.com/deepmybodytutor.comThanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.