Evolving Minds: A Conversation on Attention Spans | Gloria Mark PhD

Nov 20, 2023

"A conversation on attention spans" features guest Gloria Mark, a researcher. The podcast explores the impact of the digital world on attention spans and offers tips for enhancing concentration. They discuss myths and facts about attention span, the relationship between attention and flow, and strategies for staying focused. The podcast also delves into the connection between attention, free will, and musical rhythm. Overall, it's an insightful episode on navigating distractions in today's evolving world.

Ask episode

Chapters

Transcript

Episode notes

Introduction

00:00 • 2min

The Impact of Modern Media on Attention Spans

01:33 • 17min

Exploring the Benefits and Limitations of Flow

18:39 • 5min

Impact of External Factors on Attention Span

23:11 • 5min

Semantic Memories and Distractions in the Digital Age

27:46 • 24min

The Importance of Focus and Attention

52:02 • 11min

Strategies for Improving Focus and Productivity

01:03:13 • 7min

Ever feel your attention… drifting? Want to get better at being present? Join Kurt and Tim as they delve into the world of shrinking attention spans alongside researcher Gloria Mark. Uncover the eye-opening revelations from Mark's research, highlighting a significant decrease in attention spans within just a few short years.

Explore the intricate ways in which the digital world and screen time impact our ability to focus, all while discovering the empowering idea that we possess agency over our attention. Gloria Mark shares invaluable tips for enhancing concentration, including insights into understanding your natural rhythms, setting goals, and connecting with nature.

In this attention-grabbing episode, witness how our brains and behavior are evolving in today's increasingly distracting world. Gain a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between technology, attention spans, and individual agency. It's a journey into the evolving landscape of our minds and behaviors, offering practical tips to thrive in an era where distraction seems inevitable.

Topics

(5:33) Intro and speed round

(8:31) Myths and facts about attention span

(12:54) Attention as a resource

(19:11) Attention span, flow, and media consumption

(31:22) Staying focused and avoiding distractions

(37:25) Attention, free will, and musical rhythm

(45:07) Desert Island music

(52:20) Grooving session - finding your groove through nature and productivity

Links

Gloria’s Book - https://www.harpercollins.com/products/attention-span-gloria-mark?variant=40346590117922

Tim Urban: Inside the mind of a procrastinator - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=arj7oStGLkU

Wait But Why - https://waitbutwhy.com/2013/10/why-procrastinators-procrastinate.html

Nicholas Car "The Shallows" - https://www.nicholascarr.com/?page_id=16

Barry Lazarowitz (drummer): https://www.allmusic.com/artist/barry-lazarowitz-mn0002291879/credits

Musical Links

Echo and the Bunnymen “People are Strange” (cover) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTviNc52igI

Roger Daltry “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” (cover) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLQ6rpL_QLo

Sarah Vaughan “Broken Hearted Melody” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOWJC-fVSAI

Samara Joy “Guess Who I Saw Today” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X03lvK7qoco