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The Joe Walker Podcast

Behind the Scenes of My Interview Research Process — Andy Matuschak Crashes My Crib

Jan 25, 2025
Andy Matuschak, an independent applied researcher and former founder of Khan Academy’s R&D Lab, dives deep into the intricate preparation process for impactful podcast interviews. He explores the commitment involved, highlighting a framework that entails over 200 hours of targeted study. The conversation touches on collaborative learning, effective note-taking strategies, and the use of tools like Kanban for organization. They also share insights on balancing thorough research with engaging dialogue, ensuring interviews remain both enlightening and accessible.
01:42:51

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The interviewee dedicates extensive time, around 200 hours, to preparing for interviews, emphasizing the importance of thorough groundwork for intelligent dialogue.
  • Techniques like spaced repetition and just-in-time learning enhance the interviewee's efficiency and comprehension during their research process and interview preparation.

Deep dives

Research and Preparation Process

The interviewee spends an extensive amount of time preparing for podcast interviews, often well in advance. For instance, the preparation for an interview with a prominent figure involved around 200 hours of focused learning, comprising both intensive study and prior foundational knowledge. This preparation includes reading books relevant to the guest's work and consulting with tutors and peers in their field. The interviewee emphasizes that this thorough groundwork is critical for formulating intelligent questions and creating a robust dialogue during the interview.

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