John Kaag, a renowned philosopher and author, shares his insights on aligning work with personal values. He emphasizes Thoreau's view on meaningful labor, urging listeners to find fulfillment beyond materialism. Topics include navigating the gig economy and reevaluating work-life balance for deeper satisfaction. Kaag encourages a simpler lifestyle, continuous self-discovery, and the moral responsibilities tied to our careers. His reflections inspire a fresh perspective on living intentionally while reconnecting with nature and self.
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Cardiac Arrest and Re-evaluation
John Kaag had a cardiac arrest at 40 and reevaluated his work life.
He realized he was driven by greed and fear, prioritizing money over meaningful work.
insights INSIGHT
The Confusing Metrics of Work
Even fulfilling work can have an unhealthy relationship with money or approval.
Regularly re-evaluate your work's meaning and core values.
insights INSIGHT
Thoreau's View on Work
Thoreau viewed work not as a curse but as a path to freedom and self-discovery.
He saw work as essential for supporting oneself and finding purpose.
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Published in 1854, 'Walden; Or, Life in the Woods' is a series of 18 essays that reflect Thoreau's experiences living in a small cabin near Walden Pond from July 1845 to September 1847. The book is a personal declaration of independence, a social experiment, and a voyage of spiritual discovery. Thoreau details his life in the woods, discussing the construction of his cabin, his daily activities, and his philosophical reflections on economy, social relations, and the importance of living in harmony with nature. The work is considered a cornerstone of American literature and a foundational text in the Transcendentalist movement, emphasizing the benefits of a simplified lifestyle and the importance of individual freedom and self-reliance[2][4][5].
Infinite jest
wit and humor in Italian Renaissance art
Paul Barolsky
In this book, Paul Barolsky examines the role of wit and humor in Italian Renaissance art, providing insights into the artistic and cultural context of the period. The work delves into how artists of the Renaissance used humor and wit in their creations, reflecting the broader cultural and social attitudes of the time.
The Pathless Path
Imagining a New Story for Work and Life
Paul Millerd
The Pathless Path by Paul Millerd chronicles his journey from being a high-achieving consultant to embarking on a path of self-discovery and creating a life based on personal values and freedom. The book explores the history of work, the concept of the 'default path' versus the 'pathless path,' and offers practical advice on how to navigate uncertainty, redefine success, and find meaning in one's life. Millerd shares his experiences of living in different countries, facing existential crises, and developing principles that guide him towards a more fulfilling life. The book is an invitation to readers to question their current path and consider a more unconventional, yet meaningful, way of living.
Henry at Work
John Kaag
Jonathan van Belle
In 'Henry at Work', John Kaag and Jonathan van Belle delve into the often-overlooked aspect of Henry David Thoreau as a worker, challenging the misconception of him as a recluse. Thoreau's ideas on work, including manual labor and the search for meaningful employment, are examined alongside contemporary examples to provide insights into rethinking work in the age of automation and remote work. The book offers a personal and practical exploration of Thoreau's philosophy, applicable to various work environments.
Circles
Ralph Waldo Emerson
In 'Circles,' Ralph Waldo Emerson reflects on the cyclical nature of existence, emphasizing how everything in the universe is interconnected and moves in circular patterns. He encourages embracing new ideas and experiences to break out of life's repetitive cycles, highlighting personal growth and self-discovery as key aspects of human development.
John Kaag is a renowned philosopher and author who brings fresh insights into the timeless wisdom of Henry David Thoreau. With impressive academic achievements under his belt, including teaching writing at Harvard and serving as a professor at UMass Lowell, John possesses a unique perspective on Thoreau’s philosophy regarding work and intentional living. Drawing inspiration from his own life’s journey and the challenges of balancing personal fulfillment with professional obligations, John invites us to explore new ways of finding meaning and purpose in their work.
In this episode, you will be able to:
Explore how seeking purpose and meaning in your work enhances overall fulfillment
Learn from Thoreau’s ideals on the balance between work, personal development, and conscious living
Shift your relationship with work by placing emphasis on your core values and beliefs
Embrace a simpler lifestyle that fosters a sense of satisfaction unencumbered by material expectations
Engage in continuous self-discovery to refine your values and manifest a rich, authentic life.
The One You Feed 
