Deep Questions with Cal Newport

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP DIVE: How Reachable Should We Be? [1:48]DEEP WORK QUESTIONS - What should I do if I finish a time block early? [8:31] - How do I work deeply at home with a crying newborn? [12:57] - How I work deeply while taking care of a child full time? [17:54] - How do I manage a shared mailbox with my team? [23:14]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - What is discipline (and how do I get it)? [31:49] - Should I take a harder job to get better faster? [39:35] - What about people who don't want to do deep work? [43:21]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - Organizing notes on technical articles and books. [3:00] - Finding depth amidst a vast shallows. [8:35] - Should I get an MBA if it's free? [24:12] - Optimal counts of deep projects. [33:30] - The value habit. [36:37]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP WORK QUESTIONS - Does deep work apply to everybody? [5:15] - Who watches your kids when you do deep work? [12:48] - How do I design a deeper work environment from scratch? [19:23] - What should I focus on as a postdoc? [23:39] - Do I (Cal) really not work in the evening? [28:12]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - How much deep leisure should I schedule if I have kids? [36:40] - How can I apply deep work in retirement? [41:28] - What is my (Cal) daily routine? [44:36]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - Naturally disorganized people. [3:23] - Coping with highly reactionary schedules. [11:07] - Digital versus analog weekly plans. [16:32] - Summer reading (plus: my idea for a novel). [21:29] - Prioritizing friendly connections. [32:25] - Figuring out your values. [36:59]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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 today's episode, I am joined in studio by my longtime podcasting friend Srini Rao, host of the incredible Unmistakable Creative podcast (https://unmistakablecreative.com/), on which I've been a guest many times.Srini helps me answer your questions on both deep work and the deep life. We also talk about his podcasting company recently raising a series A round of venture capital funding, and what it was like appearing on the Netflix reality show Indian Matchmaker.I apologize that I don't have timestamps for the individual questions for this episode. In the moment, I forgot to take notes. In future collaborative Q&A episodes I'll make sure to get the questions written down so I can deliver the timestamps to you here.Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - Saving a software team from the hyperactive hive mind. [3:21] - Working from near home on a student budget [6:18] - Students' diminishing focus. [13:10] - Useful academic work. [24:15] - Deep work subverting deep leisure. [29:09]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP DIVE: Does Accomplishment Require Overload? [3:16]DEEP WORK QUESTIONS - How do you figure out what to get good at? [15:35] - Should I quit teaching to become a lifestyle coach? [23:24] - Why did I (Cal) become a computer scientist? [28;39] - How do I stop my firm from killing itself with email? [34:07] - As the multipurpose nature of computers a problem? [39:23] - What do I (Cal) think about four day work weeks? [41:30]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - Should I reschedule miss deep work for later in the day? [46:56] - Do you (Cal) ever fix your big picture plans once in motion? [48"37] - Should I apply 4DX to my deep life buckets? [56:09] - How does one balance deep work with a partner who is equally as ambitious? [1:01:42]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.- Stopping excess emails from students. [8:39]- Finding ideas for books. [16:46]- The nuances of weekly planning. [19:58]- A primer on my value-driven planning philosophy. [29:46]- Deep work for politicians. [43:47]- Inefficient workflows. [49:53]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP WORK QUESTIONS - How do I find free time as a working mother? [2:10] - How do I time block unpredictable support tasks? [13:56] - How many items are on my (Cal's) task lists and how often do I review? [18:51] - How do I stay productive without clear deadlines? [27:09] - How do get started writing? [32:33] - How do I know if an idea is good? [37:56]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - How do I integrate uncertainty into my goal setting? [43:01] - How should I configure my smartphone notifications? (Rant Alert) [52:18] - Should I quit my design job to become a writer? (Rant Alert #2) [57:50] - How do I make progress on meaningful goals in difficult circumstances? [1:09:37]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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 this episode, Brad Stulberg and Steve Magness join me to talk through Matt Crawford's classic 2009 book: "Shop Class as Soulcraft." We get into its impact on our own thinking, attempt to deconstruct its popularity, and seriously consider quitting our jobs to repair motorcycles. For more on Brad and Steve: https://wthegrowtheq.comThanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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 this episode, podcast maven Jordan Harbinger joins me for a collaborative deep dive on the topic of podcasting. We take a close look at the current state of this technology, including a look at specific numbers: How much money are people making? How many people are making that money? Why is SMARTLESS worth $20 million a year to Amazon? We then tackle the future of the industry. Will independent audio-only podcasting as we know it today still be around in 5 years, or is this just a step toward a radical new configuration of the media landscape? (I have a theory on this which I run by Jordan for his opinion.)We get into it all...For more on Jordan and his massively successful show: https://www.jordanharbinger.com/Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.- Balancing necessary shallow and important deep work. [3:23]- Increasing reading retention. [9:556]- Keeping track of goals or ideas for future pursuit. [13:59]- Growing a podcast without social media. [19:32]- Seasonal breaks from work. [30:51]- Community bucket struggles. [33:54]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.BOOK REPORT: The Americanization of Benjamin Franklin [1:30]DEEP WORK QUESTIONS - How do I eliminate the hive mind from interaction with other departments? [13:36] - How do I capture small tasks so I don't forget them? [23:23] - How do I (Cal) feel about career counselors? [29:31] - Are there professions for which time blocking doesn't work? [33:42] - How do I organize my tasks without using task boards? [37:55] - Should I build a radical setting to support the deep life? [39:50] - How do I become the right person to write a book? [42:52]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - Can a digital minimalist use a fitness tracker? [54:33] - When should I switch from work to leisure? [56:27] - How do I get back on track with a deep life after a hard pandemic? [59:24] - What is my (Cal's) top piece of parenting advice? [1:02:04] - Cal's Curmudgeon Corner: How do I find meaning beyond simply expressing myself? [1:05:01]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - Breaking up big projects into small tasks. [4:19]- The productivity baby steps (epic answer alert). [8:58]- Taming late night meetings. [26:02]- Best book of mine for college students. [34:45]- Shutdown routines with unpredictable schedules. [38:28]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.FROM THE NEWSLETTER: Notes on Quentin Tarantino's Writing Routine [3:39]DEEP WORK QUESTIONS - How fluid are my quarterly plans? [17:00] - What is a good approach to take notes in meetings? [19:59] - What do you include ads o your podcast? [23:31] - How do I install a deep work mindset in my team? [25:25] - How do you (Cal) use Evernote? [32:37] - Am I planning an app version of my time-block planner? [35:30] - Any tips to help me actually do the things I have time blocked? [37:21]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - How do I stop embracing my distracting thoughts? [45:37] - How does a high school student find things to be interested in? [55:24] - How do I get started writing on an already popular topic? [59:42] - How does deep work relate to Dave Epstein's idea go Generalists vs. Specialists? [1:05:45]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - Why people get mad at me. [1:21]- Scheduling reading. [7:06]- Semester goals and time block planners. [11:41]- McKeown's effortlessness vs. Newport's automation. [25:05]- Translating the deep life into concrete action. [30:23]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.BOOK REPORT: The Square and the Tower [3:6]DEEP WORK QUESTIONS - What should I do if I like my job but dislike the industry? [11:41] - How hard should I push back against a shallow company culture? [16:15] - Is productivity only for people with certain personality types? [25:05] - What is the best strategy for an aspiring academic? [27:30] - Should I ask experts or learn on my own? [29:23] - Can you tell me more about the CIA's mail tubes? [34:45] - How do I get on the New York Times bestseller list? [40:36]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - Is there value in keeping a daily record of significant activity? [49:50] - Can I pursue the deep life if I have mental health issues? [56:06] - Are there wrong ways to pursue the deep life? [1:00:22] - How much time do I (Cal) spend reading? [1:04:09]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - The hyperactive hive mind and the return to the office. [2:57]- Becoming productive. [12:23]- Time tracking apps. [24:51]- Scheduling continuous projects. [27:19]- Struggling with time blocking. [36:51]- Working on problems past when it's useful. [41:47]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP WORK QUESTIONS:- How do I cultivate urgency for long-term projects? [2:49]- How do I learn more about deliberate practice? [11:54]- How do deal with an "open door" policy at work? [17:06]- How can I return to academia after taking an industry job? [19:57]- Does a commitment to deep work block me from management? [21:37]- How do I avoid distractions when working from home? [24:56]- Can condensed deep work rituals still be effective? [27:45]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS:- How should I use boredom? [37:09]- Will organized schedules undermine my social life? [45:42]- What is my (Cal) take on Clubhouse? [52:11]- How can someone with few resources cultivate meaningful leisure? [56:48]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - Balancing work and school. [3:34] - Deep work and ADHD. [8:28] - Building career capital as an account executive. [15:15] - Do I know Naval Ravikant? P22:35] - Art without social media. [27:31] - Pursuing a PhD purely for passion. [33:53]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro 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.

DEEP WORK QUESTIONS - How do you apply deep work when your job is entirely shallow? [4:37] - Is batching emails a few times a day a good practice? [12:20] - Why are some tips for managing the flow of emails and texts from clients? [19:54] - What am I (Cal) working during my teaching sabbatical this spring? [26:45] - What are the ideal ratios for writing, thinking, and reading in a day? [29:47] - Can I (Cal) elaborate on how I track deep work? [34:17] - How do you avoid easing up on the gas after tenure? [35:58] - How do I teach my kids to appreciate career capital? [40:08]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - How does Cal Newport handle stress? [46:44] - how much news should I be reading? [51:55] - Is there a connection between Stephen Covey's saw and Newport's buckets? [57:59] - How do you (Cal) deal with failure and setbacks? [1:00:21]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - Balancing the unpredictable demands of a small business. [3:16] - Taming emails when it's hard to say "no". [10:02] - Notebook overkill. [20:47] - On adverting and social media.[29:52] - My thoughts on video games. [35:45]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP WORK QUESTIONS - How do you do deep work when you're not in the mood? [3:48] - How do you mange time for side hustle projects? [13:38] - What future technologies will have the biggest positive impact on focus and attention? [16:51] - How do I avoid prioritizing other peoples' task needs above my own? [24:28] - How do I build career capital without guidance? [30:12]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - How do I stop my social media relapses? [43:50] - How do I remain committed to the deep life? [48:28] - What is the relationship between order and well-being? [52:56] - How do I (Cal) track my values? [1:00:45]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, author Brad Stulberg joins me in person at my Deep Work HQ (!) for a deep dive into the topic of busyness, burn out, and the quest to craft more sustainable professional lives. For more on Brad: https://thegrowtheq.com/ or my interview from Episode 47.Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP WORK QUESTIONS - Should I maintain a day free from all work? [3:55] - How do I take notes on a Kindle? [9:06] - How an I integrate accountability with my time-block planning? (Bonus rant on making workloads transparent.) [11:31] - How do I avoid over-structuring my life as a student? [19:49] - What is my (Cal) computer science research about? [21:35] - What is the best productivity system for someone who manages hundreds of tasks across numerous projects? [25:26]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - How do you decide when to commit to a new role or project? [34:07 - Are my (Cal) ideas on passion in stark contrast to most philosophers? [39:44] - Have I (Cal) started a new book yet? [44:25] - Should I spend time on investing or my side project? [45:07] - What is the role of productivity in the deep life? [51:19]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - Dealing with time blocking overload. [4:13] - Planning household admin. [9:04] - How theoreticians schedule proof work. [16:24] - Retyping notes (or not). [27:57] - Becoming a better conductor. [34:15]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP DIVE: How Can I Significantly Reduce Email? [6:30]DEEP WORK QUESTIONS: - How do I account for transition time between time blocks? [20:20] - Rant Alert: How do I creeping combat corporate complexity?[21:58] - How do I identify processes to optimize? [29:58] - How much should one rely on technology to think? [33:10] - How important is memorization in deep work? [36:07] - Should I move to Sweden or make more money? [38:09] - Should I take a promotion that requires lots of shallow work? [46:50]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS: - Would people use Facebook if it cost money? [52:54] - Do you (Cal) identify with philosophy of Ayn Rand? [57:56] - How do you balance discipline and enjoyment in leisure? [59:03] - What's the best way to prioritize which books to read? [1:03:18]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - How long to keep items on a "done" list. [2:09] - When is it worth spending money on productivity software? [4:57] - Troubleshooting time blocks. [14:33] - Scheduling short breaks (or not). [19:30] - Avoiding distractions during planning. [30:04] - Helping young people figure out their career. [33:31]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP WORK QUESTIONS - How can I get others to accept a deeper work environment? [6:16] - How can I escape meeting overload? [10:12] - How can I ready myself for a deep work sessions? [18:00] - Should I hire an assistant to help me with my emails? [22:14] - How should indie authors use social media? [27:10] - How do I stop being so distracted at work? [35:11]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - What is my (Cal) next book going to be about? [42:26] - How do I preserve energy for home projects? [44:43] - What do you (Cal) find valuable in the work of Abraham Joshua Heschel? [50:02] - What is my (Cal) favorite Neil Postman book? [53:06] - Can I write a novel if I'm a full-time computer programmer? [56:20] - Nina how do you choose what to work deeply on? [58:56]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - Managing a "waiting on" list. [2:57] - Emotion-driven attention residue. [9:40] - Drifting from time block schedules. [15:29] - Relationship Counseling: Batching dirty dishes? [20:48] - Organizing research. [25:39] - Emotions, energy, and productivity. [32:20]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP WORK QUESTIONS - What challenges will I face switching to time-block planning for the first time? [3:43] - How do I time block very long days? [8:20] - How do I move external colleagues and clients away from email collaboration? [11:10] - How do I manage multiple email addresses? [18:57] - How do I avoid Slack FOMO? [20:21] - How can I avoid Twitter if it's where important updates are posted? [25:49] - RANT ALERT: What do I (Cal) think about big tech data collection? [28:45] - How do you hit a bestseller list without social media? [35:57] - What were my (Cal's) early blogging habits? [40:21]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - Do I (Cal) listen to audio books? [50:10] - How do I (Cal) remember thoughts from my walks? [51:31] - Will social media usage go down oner time? [54:10] - How do I be a digital minimalist in a maximalist family? [58:30] - What are the drawbacks of working more seasonly? [59:52] - How do I maintain the will to do deep work? [1:07:55]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - Productivity with a chronic illness. [4:28] - Coordinating strategic plans with a partner. [12:44] - Getting your boss to bother you less. [17:56] - High quality leisure for students [25:59] - Feeling overwhelmed by Facebook Groups. [29:58]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP DIVE: What happens if you stop using your phone for a year? [3:55]WORKING DEEPLY: - How do I avoid the hyperactive hive mind in a new job? [11:36] - How can the author of A WORLD WITHOUT EMAIL have an email list? [14:02] - When did personal productivity become a thing? [16:25] - Am I overcommitted or bad at time management? [25:47] - How do I decide on roles for my task boards? [29:23] - How can I become established as a content creator? (Or, the perils of "checklist productivity") [33:16] - Recreating the water color in a world without email? [38:44]LIVING DEEPLY: - What are some good biographies for deep life inspiration? [46:38] - What are my top 3 recommendations for someone looking to live deeper? [49:12] - Can a commute be contemplative? [54:50] - Where do I (Cal) write about "the deep life" in my books? [58:51]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - Time block specificity (coercive versus collaborative productivity). [6:24] - Balancing time spent on different types of work. [11:34] - Project priorities. [18:34] - Building a social life during a pandemic. [26:57] - Making use of unexpected free time. [33:27]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I'm joined in today's episode by Greg McKeown, author of the mega-bestseller Essentialism, and his new book, Effortless.We talk about the massive success of Essentialism, decoding why it did so well and discussing how it changed his life. We then get into the origin of the ideas that became Effortless, and use some of my own attempts to make essential work easier as a case study.Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.Behind the Curtain: My Current Scheduling Setup [0:22]Book Recommendation: The Unspoken Rules [9:34]Listener Calls: - Perfectionism and time-block schedules. [12:58] - Constructing effective student schedules. [18:56] - Organizing the tasks that make up a project. [26:58] - Optimal task structure. [35:47] - RANT ALERT: social media and danger of algorithmic attention. [40:32]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP DIVE: What Does "Productivity" Actually Mean? [5:04]WORK QUESTIONS - How do I stay productive after the pandemic? [17:56] - How do I relearn how to think deeply? [22:51] - Can I build a world without email with non-knowledge workers? [31:38] - Are some people more aligned to some jobs than others? [34:47]TECHNOLOGY QUESTIONS - Do I need a dumb phone? [38:48] - How will the pandemic impact higher education? [42:28]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - Has my liberal arts education helped my CS career? [51:23] - How do the "deep life" buckets related to quarterly planning? [56:05]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.- Determining if your work is deep. [3:21]- Limits for daily deep work. [6:30]- Taking notes in a time block planner. [11:17]- My notebooks. [17:24]- Instagram and artists. [24:16]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.WORK QUESTIONS - What algorithm should I use to implement the Eisenhower Matrix? [6:21] - Should I switch careers to pursue my dream? [9:34] - How did I (Cal) fit research, teaching, and writing into my 9 to 5 graduate student schedule? [20:37] - What advice should I give students about deep work? [23:55]TECHNOLOGY QUESTIONS - Can I succeed in music without social media? [28:06] - How can I avoid social media during Zoom classes? [32:28] - What are my (Cal) favorite sources for book research? [40:03]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - How do I (Cal) decide what books to read? [42:00] - How can I combine deep leisure with an exhausting job? [45:40]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.- Transferring tasks from capture to configure tools. [4:07]- Getting better at thinking while walking (plus bonus MIT nostalgia). [6:53] - Deep work breaks. [14:44]- Dedicated task lists for projects (what I do). [25:28]- Incompatible calendars. [30:43]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP DIVE: Are NFTs frivolous or fundamental? [6:57]WORK QUESTIONS - Does a world without email mean the return of voicemail? [23:42] - Is Elon Musk right about not pursuing a PhD? [26:31] - Is mastery incompatible with the deep life? [28:47] - Do I need a todo list for my personal life? [39:15] - How do you come up with catchy phrases like "hyperactive hive mind"? [41:26] - Why am I wary of building a team? [44:12]TECHNOLOGY QUESTIONS - How do I use the internet responsibly when there is so much information? [48:02] - How do I learn to code while working a demanding job? [49:33] - What are my (Cal) thoughts on Microsoft Teams? [55:41]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - How do I (Cal) spend my time outside of work and family? [58:49] - How do I unplug from the "productivity machine" and relax? [1:01:10]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's listener calls mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - Scheduling multiple concurrent projects. [5:06] - Prioritizing projects. [12:03] - Work from home wardrobes (and virtual commutes). [15:58] - Maintaining focusing during mini-delays. [23:49] - Decorating an office to support deep work. [28:11]Link for my Clubhouse conversation with Kevin Roose (3pm Eastern on 4/1): https://www.joinclubhouse.com/event/xeeZL4DEThanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.WORK QUESTIONS - How do I concentrate in an open office? [5:27] - Do professors need to work 60+ hours a week? [9:10] - What's the best workflow for student reference letters? [17:38] - How does an MS student prepare to become a CS professor? [21:21] - How can a high school principal find time to do deep work? [25:28]TECHNOLOGY QUESTIONS - Can email itself be the work? [35:36] - Do I need constant pings and messaging to foster community? [43:27] - Must I stop watching TV and movies to be productive? [46:51]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - In what order should a teenager read the Cal Newport Canon? [53:42] - Are Peloton badges just another digital addiction? [58:48] - How do I stop avoiding the need to live deeper? [1:01:36]Link for my Clubhouse conversation with Kevin Roose (3pm Eastern on 4/1): https://www.joinclubhouse.com/event/xeeZL4DEThanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.- Taming scattered schedules. [3:10]- Phantom part time work in the office. [11:04]- The joys and sorrows of binge working. [18:12]- Organizing reading when you're slow at reading. [25:05]- Combatting administrative overload in academia (including a bonus unsolicited rant). [29:57]Thanks to listener Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP DIVE: What Are My Core Systems? [2:40]WORK QUESTIONS - How do I avoid burnout? [13:33] - How do I measure effectiveness in a vague job? [19:58] - How do I teach myself to become a better programmer? [22:19] - What is a good way to become a better leader? [27:50] - How do non-fiction writers become better at their craft? [30:56] - What motivates a boss to promote you? (Plus a bonus digression on personal versus societal improvement) [34:27]TECHNOLOGY QUESTIONS - Does personal email make people miserable? [39:40] - Should I quit social media for good? [42:09] - How do I help someone kick their TikTok addiction? [49:23] - Is it possible to succeed in business without a personal brand? [56:40]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - How do we teach deep thinking to kids? (warning: your kids will now like my answer) [1:00:36] - Why did I move to Takoma Park? [1:04:32] - How do I focus when dealing with emotional turmoil? [1:15]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - On the value of expensive productivity systems. [3:58] - Phantom part-time jobs. [11:16] - Working deeply after hard days. [16:24] - Must all leisure be quality? [28:27]Thanks to listener Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP DIVE: Should this meeting have been an email? [5:30]WORK QUESTIONS - How do I recharge after a hard year of work? [17:14] - How do I write blog posts? [20:46] - How important is working from home for accomplishing deep work? [22:52] - How can I apply productive meditation to work that requires a computer? [28:52]TECHNOLOGY QUESTIONS - How do I step away from WhatsApp? [33:13] - Are spaced repetition flashcard programs worth it? [36:47] - What should I replace social media with in my life? [43:24] - How can I start a business without social media? [51:19]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - Why are kitchens such appealing work locations? [54:53] - How do I overcome deep procrastination during remote learning? [58:10] - Should I time block after retirement?Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.- Active recall in the office. [4:58]- Processes for problem solving. [9:58]- Time blocking versus the pomodoro method. [14:20]- Time blocking versus bullet journaling. [23:51]- The necessity of a second brain. [28:46]Thanks to listener Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the questions covered in today's episode (with their timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast.DEEP DIVE: Does email have a mind of its own? [6:23]WORK QUESTIONS - How do I avoid boring research? [16:35] - How do I learn new skills without becoming overwhelmed? [19:44] - How do I better structure workplace communication? [23:34] - How do I say "no" more often? [29:41]TECHNOLOGY QUESTIONS - When should I stop listening to your podcast? [39:12] - How do I deal with excessive browser tabs? [40:14] - Will the world eventually force me to buy a smartphone? [49:08]DEEP LIFE QUESTIONS - (A brief meditation on the pleasures of regular autonomous creative work) [52:20] - How long should planning take? [57:28] - Is reading fiction a waste of time? [59:04] - What is your opinion of Alexa? [1:02:41] - Is a mission different than a passion? [1:06:22]Thanks to Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Below are the topics covered in today's mini-episode (with timestamps). For instructions on submitting your own questions, go to calnewport.com/podcast. - Updating strategic plans. [4:13] - Capturing small projects. [8:26] - Archiving tasks. [12:47] - Email on speed (dealing with WhatsApp). [17:15] - Coping with an abundance of depth. [31:28]Thanks to listener Jay Kerstens for the intro music. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.