Ep. 217: Slow Productivity Advice

In this classic murder mystery, ten strangers are lured to Indian Island, off the coast of Devon, by an unknown host. Each guest has a dark secret and is accused of a past crime by a recorded voice. As the guests are murdered one by one, following the pattern of the nursery rhyme 'Ten Little Indians,' the remaining survivors must uncover the killer's identity before they become the next victims. The novel is known for its intricate plot, surprising twists, and its exploration of themes such as justice, guilt, and class distinctions.

This book offers a holistic approach to personal finance, encouraging readers to view money as a form of 'life energy' and to align their spending with their values. It provides nine steps to help readers stop living paycheck to paycheck, get out of debt, and achieve financial independence. Key concepts include calculating net worth, evaluating the life energy spent on work, and investing wisely. The authors emphasize the importance of finding one's 'point of enough' and living a more deliberate, meaningful life.

In 'Genius Makers,' Cade Metz provides an inside story of how AI evolved from a fringe enthusiasm to a transformative technology. The book chronicles the lives of mavericks, eccentrics, and geniuses, particularly Geoffrey Hinton, who played a critical role in developing deep learning. Metz explains the technology in an accessible way, highlighting the industrial and academic rivalries, and the vast fortunes and intense conflicts that arose as AI became big business. The book also explores the future implications of AI on human society, including issues of privacy, security, bias, and prejudice.

Roger Ebert's "The Great Movies" is a collection of essays on 100 films that the renowned critic considered to be among the best ever made. Ebert's insightful analyses explore the artistic and cultural significance of these films, offering a unique perspective on their enduring appeal. The book covers a wide range of genres and styles, showcasing Ebert's deep understanding of cinema. Ebert's writing is known for its accessibility and engaging style, making the book enjoyable for both casual moviegoers and film enthusiasts. "The Great Movies" is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the art of filmmaking.

This book by Matthew Ball provides a definitive account of the Metaverse, a persistent and interconnected network of 3D virtual worlds that will serve as the gateway to most online experiences and underpin much of the physical world. Ball explains the technologies necessary to build the Metaverse, addresses governance challenges, and predicts its impact on various industries and society. He also discusses the role of Web3, blockchains, NFTs, and the enormous infrastructure investments required. The book offers a clear and authoritative view on the future of the internet and its potential to revolutionize every aspect of life.

In 'Endure,' Alex Hutchinson delves into the science and psychology of human endurance, highlighting the complex interplay between the mind and body. The book discusses various physical limits such as pain, muscle, oxygen, heat, thirst, and fuel, and how these are influenced by psychological factors. Hutchinson draws on his experiences as a distance runner and his access to Nike’s secret training project to break the two-hour marathon barrier, providing insights into how individuals can push beyond their perceived limits. The book blends cutting-edge science with gripping storytelling, making it a comprehensive and engaging read on the elastic limits of human performance.