In this episode, Samuel Arbesman speaks with Alex Pang, author of several influential books on rethinking work—particularly how we rest and why spending less time in the office can lead to greater productivity. Pang’s most recent works include REST: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less and SHORTER: Work Better, Smarter and Less—Here’s How. His work focuses deeply on the four-day workweek, and he collaborates with 4 Day Week Global to promote a more sustainable and balanced approach to labor.

Together, Samuel and Alex explore the origins of Alex’s interest in rest and productivity, his thoughts on meaning and leisure, and why we should take our downtime seriously. Their conversation touches on how time itself opens up choice and freedom, and Alex’s vision for a better future of work and life. They also delve into how these ideas are received—or often ignored—in the startup world, and how many only begin to embrace them after reaching a breaking point.

Produced by⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Christopher Gates⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Music by Suno

Alex Soojung-Kim Pang on REST & SHORTER