Deep Questions with Cal Newport podcast

Deep Questions with Cal Newport

Cal Newport is a computer science professor and a New York Times bestselling author who writes about the impact of technology on society, and the struggle to work and live deeply in a world increasingly mired in digital distractions. On this podcast, he answers questions from his readers and offers advice about cultivating focus, productivity, and meaning amidst the noise that pervades our lives.

Cal Newport is a computer science professor and a New York Times bestselling author who writes about the impact of technology on society, and the struggle to work and live deeply in a world increasingly mired in digital distractions. On this podcast, he answers questions from his readers and offers advice about cultivating focus, productivity, and meaning amidst the noise that pervades our lives.

 

#330

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo '>bit.ly/3U3sTvo </a>   Video from today’s episode: <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia '>youtube.com/calnewportmedia </a>   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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow'>calnewport.com/slow</a>  Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ </a> Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? '>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? </a> <a href='https://youtu.be/SeZ1YOgbz18?si=kuCksvy_dGoOfx8Q '>youtu.be/SeZ1YOgbz18?si=kuCksvy_dGoOfx8Q </a>   Thanks to our Sponsors:    <a href='https://www.shopify.com/deep '>shopify.com/deep </a> <a href='https://www.drinklmnt.com/deep '>drinklmnt.com/deep </a> <a href='https://www.expressvpn.com/deep '>expressvpn.com/deep </a> <a href='https://www.mintmoblie.com/deep '>mintmoblie.com/deep </a>   Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering.  ... Read more

18 Nov 2024

1 HR 28 MINS

1:28:52

18 Nov 2024


#329

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a> Video from today’s episode: <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a> Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow'>calnewport.com/slow</a>  Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/</a> Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?'>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a> <a href='https://calnewport.com/after-you-vote-unplug/'>calnewport.com/after-you-vote-unplug/</a> <a href='https://www.today.com/shop/martha-stewart-shares-her-favorite-tips-staying-organized-t171345'>today.com/shop/martha-stewart-shares-her-favorite-tips-staying-organized-t171345</a> Thanks to our Sponsors:  <a href='https://www.mybodytutor.com'>mybodytutor.com</a> <a href='https://www.cozyearth.com/deep'>cozyearth.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.notion.com/cal'>notion.com/cal</a> <a href='https://www.rhone.com/cal'>rhone.com/cal</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

11 Nov 2024

1 HR 32 MINS

1:32:36

11 Nov 2024


#328

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo '>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>   Video from today’s episode: <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia '>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>   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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow</a> Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/</a> Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? '>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a>   Thanks to our Sponsors:    This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at <a href='https://www.betterhelp.com/deepquestions'>betterhelp.com/deepquestions</a>  <a href='https://www.grammarly.com/podcast '>grammarly.com/podcast </a> <a href='https://www.zocdoc.com/deep '>zocdoc.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.shopify.com/deep '>shopify.com/deep</a>   Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering.  ... Read more

04 Nov 2024

1 HR 26 MINS

1:26:54

04 Nov 2024


#327

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>    Video from today’s episode: <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>    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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow'>calnewport.com/slow</a>  Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/'>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/</a>  Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?'>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a>  <a href='https://www.newyorker.com/culture/photo-booth/the-frightening-familiarity-of-late-nineties-office-photos'>newyorker.com/culture/photo-booth/the-frightening-familiarity-of-late-nineties-office-photos</a>  <a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lRkCbhABvo '>youtube.com/watch?v=-lRkCbhABvo</a>   Thanks to our Sponsors:    <a href='https://www.blinkist.com/deep '>blinkist.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.notion.com/cal '>notion.com/cal</a> <a href='https://www.zbiotics.com/cal '>zbiotics.com/cal</a> <a href='https://www.drinklmnt.com/deep '>drinklmnt.com/deep</a>   Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering.  ... Read more

28 Oct 2024

1 HR 20 MINS

1:20:21

28 Oct 2024


#326

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo '>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>   Video from today’s episode: <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia '>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>   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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow</a> Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/</a> Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? '>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a> <a href='https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/15/opinion/ann-patchett-regret-email.html '>nytimes.com/2024/10/15/opinion/ann-patchett-regret-email.html</a>   Thanks to our Sponsors:    <a href='https://www.drinklmnt.com/deep '>drinklmnt.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.shopify.com/deep '>shopify.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.policygenius.com/deepquestions '>policygenius.com/deepquestions</a> <a href='https://www.mintmobile.com/deep '>mintmobile.com/deep</a>   Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering.  ... Read more

21 Oct 2024

1 HR 19 MINS

1:19:38

21 Oct 2024


#325

IN-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:  <a href='https://www.youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a> INTERVIEW: New York Times best seller Oliver Burkeman [3:40] Links:<a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow'>https://www.calnewport.com/slow</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the theme music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

17 Oct 2024

1 HR 17 MINS

1:17:16

17 Oct 2024


#324

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo '>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>   Video from today’s episode: <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia '>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>   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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow</a> Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/</a> Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? '>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a> <a href='https://www.city-journal.org/article/professor-mia '>city-journal.org/article/professor-mia</a> <a href='https://www.newyorker.com/culture/annals-of-inquiry/what-kind-of-writer-is-chatgpt '>newyorker.com/culture/annals-of-inquiry/what-kind-of-writer-is-chatgpt</a>   Thanks to our Sponsors:    <a href='https://www.mybodytutor.com '>mybodytutor.com</a> <a href='https://www.expressvpn.com/deep '>expressvpn.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.rhone.com/cal '>rhone.com/cal</a> <a href='https://www.cozyearth.com/deep '>cozyearth.com/deep</a>   Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering.  ... Read more

14 Oct 2024

1 HR 20 MINS

1:20:03

14 Oct 2024


#323

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>   Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia '>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>   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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow'>calnewport.com/slow</a> Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/</a> Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?'>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a>   Thanks to our Sponsors:    This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at <a href='https://www.betterhelp.com/deepquestions '>betterhelp.com/deepquestions</a> <a href='https://www.zocdoc.com/deep '>zocdoc.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.shopify.com/deep '>shopify.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.zbiotics.com/cal '>zbiotics.com/cal</a>  Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering.  ... Read more

07 Oct 2024

1 HR 15 MINS

1:15:38

07 Oct 2024


#322

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a> Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a> Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow</a>Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/</a>Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?'>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a><a href='https://tumblr.austinkleon.com/post/761805215728009216/in-the-shack-with-robert-caro-he-bought-the-prefab'>tumblr.austinkleon.com/post/761805215728009216/in-the-shack-with-robert-caro-he-bought-the-prefab</a> Thanks to our Sponsors:  <a href='https://www.notion.com/cal'>notion.com/cal</a><a href='https://www.mintmobile.com/deep'>mintmobile.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.oracle.com/deepquestions'>oracle.com/deepquestions</a><a href='https://www.landroverusa.com'>landroverusa.com</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

30 Sep 2024

1 HR 06 MINS

1:06:48

30 Sep 2024


#321

IN-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/calnewportmedia INTERVIEW: Mega-bestselling writer Arthur Brooks [3:33] Links:<a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow'>https://www.calnewport.com/slow</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the theme music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

26 Sep 2024

1 HR 14 MINS

1:14:02

26 Sep 2024


#320

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo '>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a> Video from today’s episode: <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia '>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a> Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow</a>Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/</a>Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? '>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a><a href='https://aboutamazon.com/news/company-news/ceo-andy-jassy-latest-update-on-amazon-return-to-office-manager-team-ratio '>aboutamazon.com/news/company-news/ceo-andy-jassy-latest-update-on-amazon-return-to-office-manager-team-ratio</a> Thanks to our Sponsors:  <a href='https://www.drinklmnt.com/deep '>drinklmnt.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.greenlight.com/deep '>greenlight.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.expressvpn.com/deep'>expressvpn.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.shopify.com/deep '>shopify.com/deep</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering.  ... Read more

23 Sep 2024

1 HR 18 MINS

1:18:57

23 Sep 2024


#319

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo '>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>   Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia '>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>   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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow</a> Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/</a> Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? '>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a> <a href='https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/09/want-to-boost-your-productivity-hit-the-movies-during-work-expert-says.html '>cnbc.com/2024/05/09/want-to-boost-your-productivity-hit-the-movies-during-work-expert-says.html</a> <a href='https://www.cnbc.com/amp/2024/09/09/whole-foods-ceo-swears-by-time-blocking-to-boost-productivity.html '>cnbc.com/amp/2024/09/09/whole-foods-ceo-swears-by-time-blocking-to-boost-productivity.html</a>   Thanks to our Sponsors:    <a href='https://www.mybodytutor.com '>mybodytutor.com</a> <a href='https://www.blinkist.com/deep '>blinkist.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.cozyearth.com/deep '>cozyearth.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.rhone.com/cal '>rhone.com/cal</a>   Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

16 Sep 2024

1 HR 14 MINS

1:14:04

16 Sep 2024


#318

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a> Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia '>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a> Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow</a>Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/</a>Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? '>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a><a href='https://www.texasmonthly.com/arts-entertainment/ryan-holiday-stoic-king-bastrop-painted-porch/ '>texasmonthly.com/arts-entertainment/ryan-holiday-stoic-king-bastrop-painted-porch/</a><a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hB3tBI-KNLk '>youtube.com/watch?v=hB3tBI-KNLk</a><a href='https://twitter.com/InfiniteB88ks/status/1824108211081019821 '>twitter.com/InfiniteB88ks/status/1824108211081019821</a> Thanks to our Sponsors:  <a href='https://www.shopify.com/deep '>shopify.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.drinklmnt.com/deep '>drinklmnt.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.expressvpn.com/deep '>expressvpn.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.factor.com/deep50 '>factor.com/deep50</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering.  ... Read more

09 Sep 2024

1 HR 27 MINS

1:27:45

09 Sep 2024


#317

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a> Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a> Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow </a> Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ </a> Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?'>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a> Thanks to our Sponsors:  This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at <a href='https://www.betterhelp.com/deepquestions'>betterhelp.com/deepquestions</a> <a href='https://www.zocdoc.com/deep'>zocdoc.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.notion.com/cal'>notion.com/cal</a> <a href='https://www.ladderlife.com/deep'>ladderlife.com/deep</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

02 Sep 2024

1 HR 19 MINS

1:19:51

02 Sep 2024


#316

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>Video from today’s episode: <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow </a>Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ </a>Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?'>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a>Thanks to our Sponsors: <a href='https://www.drinklmnt.com/deep'>drinklmnt.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.indeed.com/deep'>indeed.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.shopify.com/deep'>shopify.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.factormeals.com/deep50'>factormeals.com/deep50</a>Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

26 Aug 2024

1 HR 12 MINS

1:12:15

26 Aug 2024


#315

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo '>bit.ly/3U3sTvo </a> Video from today’s episode: <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia '>youtube.com/calnewportmedia </a> 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow </a> Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ </a> Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? '>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? </a> Thanks to our Sponsors:   <a href='https://www.cozyearth.com/cal '>cozyearth.com/cal </a><a href='https://www.mintmobile.com/deep '>mintmobile.com/deep </a><a href='https://www.policygenius.com/deepquestions '>policygenius.com/deepquestions </a><a href='https://www.blinkist.com/deep '>blinkist.com/deep </a>  Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering.  ... Read more

19 Aug 2024

58 MINS

58:14

19 Aug 2024


#314

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow'>calnewport.com/slow</a> ---Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/'>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/</a> ---Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?'>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a> ---<a href='https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-02540-0'>nature.com/articles/d41586-024-02540-0</a> ---<a href='https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-02381-x'>nature.com/articles/d41586-024-02381-x</a> Thanks to our Sponsors: ---<a href='https://www.grammarly.com/podcast'>grammarly.com/podcast</a> ---<a href='https://www.mybodytutor.com'>mybodytutor.com</a> ---<a href='https://www.rhone.com/cal'>rhone.com/cal</a> ---<a href='https://www.shopify.com/deep'>shopify.com/deep</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

12 Aug 2024

1 HR 15 MINS

1:15:16

12 Aug 2024


#313

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo '>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a> Video from today’s episode: <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia '>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a> Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow</a> Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport</a> Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? '>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a>   Thanks to our Sponsors:   This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at<a href=' https://www.betterhelp.com/deepquestions '> betterhelp.com/deepquestions</a> <a href='https://www.zocdoc.com/deep '>zocdoc.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.expressvpn.com/deep '>expressvpn.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.drinklmnt.com/deep '>drinklmnt.com/deep</a>   Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

05 Aug 2024

1 HR 36 MINS

1:36:15

05 Aug 2024


#312

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo '>bit.ly/3U3sTvo </a>   Video from today’s episode: <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia '>youtube.com/calnewportmedia </a>   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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow </a> Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport </a> Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? '>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? </a> <a href='https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2024/books/authors-top-books-21st-century.html '>nytimes.com/interactive/2024/books/authors-top-books-21st-century.html </a>   Thanks to our Sponsors:    <a href='https://www.oracle.com/deepquestions '>oracle.com/deepquestions </a> <a href='https://www.indeed.com/deep '>indeed.com/deep </a> <a href='https://www.notion.com/cal '>notion.com/cal </a> <a href='https://www.shopify.com/deep '>shopify.com/deep </a>   Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering.  ... Read more

29 Jul 2024

1 HR 18 MINS

1:18:22

29 Jul 2024


#311

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo '>https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo </a>   Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia '>https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia </a>   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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow </a> ---Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ </a> ---Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? '>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba? </a> ---<a href='https://www.reddit.com/r/LifeProTips/comments/15sjr2h/lpt_request_how_to_stop_favoring_short_term/ '>reddit.com/r/LifeProTips/comments/15sjr2h/lpt_request_how_to_stop_favoring_short_term/ </a> ---<a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2958859/ '>ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2958859/ </a> ---<a href='https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/06/240607121448.htm '>sciencedaily.com/releases/2024/06/240607121448.htm </a> ---<a href='https://english.elpais.com/lifestyle/2024-07-06/cal-newport-the-man-who-never-procrastinates.html '>english.elpais.com/lifestyle/2024-07-06/cal-newport-the-man-who-never-procrastinates.html </a>     Thanks to our Sponsors:    ---<a href='https://www.mintmobile.com/deep '>mintmobile.com/deep </a> ---<a href='https://www.rhone.com/cal '>rhone.com/cal </a> ---<a href='https://www.greenlight.com/deep '>greenlight.com/deep </a> ---<a href='https://www.blinkist.com/deep '>blinkist.com/deep </a>   Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering.  ... Read more

22 Jul 2024

1 HR 23 MINS

1:23:18

22 Jul 2024


#310

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>Deep 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 <a href='https://calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow </a> ---Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ </a> ---Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?'>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a> ---<a href='https://washingtonpost.com/opinions/2024/06/27/social-media-warning-label-surgeon-general-counterarguments/'>washingtonpost.com/opinions/2024/06/27/social-media-warning-label-surgeon-general-counterarguments/</a> ---<a href='https://english.elpais.com/lifestyle/2024-07-06/cal-newport-the-man-who-never-procrastinates.html '>english.elpais.com/lifestyle/2024-07-06/cal-newport-the-man-who-never-procrastinates.html </a>  Thanks to our Sponsors:  ---<a href='https://grammarly.com/podcast'>grammarly.com/podcast</a> ---<a href='https://cozyearth.com/cal'>cozyearth.com/cal</a> ---<a href='https://mybodytutor.com'>mybodytutor.com</a> ---<a href='https://drinklmnt.com/deep'>drinklmnt.com/deep</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

15 Jul 2024

1 HR 03 MINS

1:03:00

15 Jul 2024


#309

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a> Video from today’s episode: <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a> Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow'>calnewport.com/slow</a> Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/'>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/</a> Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?'>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a> Thanks to our Sponsors: <a href='https://www.indeed.com/deep'>indeed.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.notion.com/cal'>notion.com/cal</a> <a href='https://www.shopify.com/deep'>shopify.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.expressvpn.com/deep'>expressvpn.com/deep</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

08 Jul 2024

1 HR 21 MINS

1:21:05

08 Jul 2024


#308

Ep. 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/3U3sTvo Video from today’s episode:  youtube.com/calnewportmedia Deep 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: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?v=448bf8afad0740d18f6b109b4bd40d51'>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?</a> <a href='https://calnewport.com/on-ultra-processed-content/'>https://calnewport.com/on-ultra-processed-content/</a> Thanks to our Sponsors:  This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at <a href='https://www.betterhelp.com/deepquestions'>https://www.betterhelp.com/deepquestions</a><a href='https://www.zocdoc.com/deep'>https://www.zocdoc.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.drinklmnt.com/deep'>https://www.drinklmnt.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.ladder.com/deep'>https://www.ladder.com/deep</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

01 Jul 2024

1 HR 19 MINS

1:19:52

01 Jul 2024


#307

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a> Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a> Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow </a> Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ </a> Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?v=448bf8afad0740d18f6b109b4bd40d51'>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?v=448bf8afad0740d18f6b109b4bd40d51 </a> <a href='https://www.axios.com/2024/06/18/wells-fargo-mouse-jiggler-fired-employee-productivity'>axios.com/2024/06/18/wells-fargo-mouse-jiggler-fired-employee-productivity</a> <a href='https://www.nytimes.com/2023/03/24/opinion/yuval-harari-ai-chatgpt.html'>nytimes.com/2023/03/24/opinion/yuval-harari-ai-chatgpt.html</a> <a href='https://arxiv.org/pdf/2303.12712 '>arxiv.org/pdf/2303.12712 </a> Thanks to our Sponsors:  <a href='https://www.moshlife.com/deep'>moshlife.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.shopify.com/deep'>shopify.com/deep</a> <a href='https://www.grammarly.com/podcast'>grammarly.com/podcast</a> <a href='https://www.rhone.com/cal'>rhone.com/cal</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for the slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

24 Jun 2024

1 HR 42 MINS

1:42:17

24 Jun 2024


#306

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow </a> ---Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ </a> ---Cal’s monthly book directory: <a href='https://bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?v=448bf8afad0740d18f6b109b4bd40d51 '>bramses.notion.site/059db2641def4a88988b4d2cee4657ba?v=448bf8afad0740d18f6b109b4bd40d51 </a> ---<a href='https://shows.acast.com/farewell/episodes/045-the-reason-you-cant-ever-get-through-your-to-do-list-wit'>shows.acast.com/farewell/episodes/045-the-reason-you-cant-ever-get-through-your-to-do-list-wit</a> ---<a href='https://developer.apple.com/videos/play/wwdc2024/102/'>developer.apple.com/videos/play/wwdc2024/102/</a>  Thanks to our Sponsors:  ---<a href='https://www.drinklmnt.com/deep'>drinklmnt.com/deep</a> ---<a href='https://www.cozyearth.com/cal'>cozyearth.com/cal</a> ---<a href='https://www.mintmobile.com/deep'>mintmobile.com/deep</a> ---<a href='https://www.policygenius.com/deep'>policygenius.com/deep</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

17 Jun 2024

1 HR 21 MINS

1:21:31

17 Jun 2024


#305

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow </a>Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ </a><a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TXAvkqXD-Fc'>youtube.com/watch?v=TXAvkqXD-Fc</a><a href='https://www.youtube.com/c/jamesscholz'>youtube.com/c/jamesscholz</a> Thanks to our Sponsors: <a href='https://www.drinklmnt.com/deep'>drinklmnt.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.blinkist.com/deep'>blinkist.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.mybodytutor.com'>mybodytutor.com</a><a href='https://www.shopify.com/deep'>shopify.com/deep</a>Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

10 Jun 2024

1 HR 20 MINS

1:20:08

10 Jun 2024


#304

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow </a> ---Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ </a>  Thanks to our Sponsors:  ---This show is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at <a href='https://www.betterhelp.com/deepquestions'>betterhelp.com/deepquestions</a> ---<a href='https://www.zocdoc.com/deep'>zocdoc.com/deep</a> ---<a href='https://www.expressvpn.com/deep'>expressvpn.com/deep</a> ---<a href='https://www.notion.com/cal'>notion.com/cal</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

03 Jun 2024

1 HR 34 MINS

1:34:55

03 Jun 2024


#303

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>Video from today’s episode: <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow'>calnewport.com/slow </a> ---Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ </a> ---<a href='https://calnewport.com/adventure-studying-an-unconventional-new-approach-to-exam-preperation/'>calnewport.com/adventure-studying-an-unconventional-new-approach-to-exam-preperation/</a> ---<a href='https://calnewport.com/bonus-post-an-adventure-studying-case-study/'>calnewport.com/bonus-post-an-adventure-studying-case-study/</a> ---<a href='https://www.instagram.com/p/B1y5dV3HSC9/?igshid=1r2acwbmfztew'>instagram.com/p/B1y5dV3HSC9/?igshid=1r2acwbmfztew</a> ---<a href='https://apcc.org/pond-stories-mary-olivers-blackwater-pond-provincetown/'>apcc.org/pond-stories-mary-olivers-blackwater-pond-provincetown/</a> ---<a href='https://www.scottishfield.co.uk/scotland-travel/the-black-heart-of-scots-crime-writer-ian-rankin/'>scottishfield.co.uk/scotland-travel/the-black-heart-of-scots-crime-writer-ian-rankin/</a> ---<a href='https://calnewport.com/the-power-of-the-outdoor-office/'>calnewport.com/the-power-of-the-outdoor-office/</a> ---<a href='https://calnewport.com/deep-habits-my-office-in-the-woods/'>calnewport.com/deep-habits-my-office-in-the-woods/</a> ---<a href='https://www.theguardian.com/football/article/2024/may/08/sir-jim-ratcliffe-manchester-united-remote-work-ban-email-traffic'>theguardian.com/football/article/2024/may/08/sir-jim-ratcliffe-manchester-united-remote-work-ban-email-traffic</a> ---<a href='https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2024/02/hybrid-work-attention-productivity/677598/'>theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2024/02/hybrid-work-attention-productivity/677598/</a>  Thanks to our Sponsors:  ---<a href='https://www.shopify.com/deep'>shopify.com/deep</a> ---<a href='https://www.blinkist.com/deep'>blinkist.com/deep</a> ---<a href='https://www.listening.com/deep'>listening.com/deep</a> ---<a href='https://www.drinklmnt.com/deep'>drinklmnt.com/deep</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

27 May 2024

1 HR 22 MINS

1:22:00

27 May 2024


#302

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>- 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: <a href='https://www.mintmobile.com/deep'>mintmobile.com/deep</a><a href='https://www.grammarly.com/podcast'>grammarly.com/podcast</a><a href='https://www.landroverusa.com/defender'>landroverusa.com/defender</a><a href='https://www.rhone.com/cal'>rhone.com/cal</a>Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

20 May 2024

1 HR 35 MINS

1:35:54

20 May 2024


#301

Ep. 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: <a href='https://bit.ly/3U3sTvo'>bit.ly/3U3sTvo</a>Video from today’s episode:  <a href='https://youtube.com/calnewportmedia'>youtube.com/calnewportmedia</a>Deep 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 <a href='https://www.calnewport.com/slow '>calnewport.com/slow </a> ---Get a signed copy of Cal’s “Slow Productivity” at <a href='https://peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/ '>peoplesbooktakoma.com/event/cal-newport/  </a> ---<a href='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEJ4hkpQW8E'>www.youtube.com/watch?v=qEJ4hkpQW8E</a> ---<a href='https://www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/research/report/2023-cs-smartphone-research-report_final-for-web.pdf'>www.commonsensemedia.org/sites/default/files/research/report/2023-cs-smartphone-research-report_final-for-web.pdf</a> ---<a href='https://tenochtitlan.thomaskole.nl/'>tenochtitlan.thomaskole.nl/</a> Thanks to our Sponsors:  ---<a href='https://www.drinklmnt.com/deep'>drinklmnt.com/deep</a> ---<a href='https://www.cozyearth.com/cal'>cozyearth.com/cal</a> ---<a href='https://www.expressvpn.com/deep'>expressvpn.com/deep</a> ---<a href='https://www.mybodytutor.com'>mybodytutor.com</a> Thanks to Jesse Miller for production, Jay Kerstens for the intro music, Kieron Rees for slow productivity music, and Mark Miles for mastering. ... Read more

13 May 2024

1 HR 22 MINS

1:22:42

13 May 2024