Author John Dickerson delves into productivity routines like the Pomodoro Technique, the significance of a meditation pillow, and the impact of a teacher's profound questions on life fulfillment. The podcast explores the psychology behind to-do lists, the struggles of traditional productivity methods, and the importance of intentional living influenced by renowned authors. It also highlights the craft mindset inspired by Professor Ernest Mead and the value of starting small to achieve productivity goals.

Legal expert Emily Bazelon, political analyst John Dickerson, and journalist David Plotz discuss the possibility of Joe Biden stepping down and potential replacements, Project 2025, and the impact of Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett. They also delve into Trump's strategic plans, government effectiveness, optimizing supply chains with AI, and the complexities of conservative legal interpretation.

Legal expert Emily Bazelon, journalist John Dickerson, and host David Plotz analyze the upcoming presidential debates, the Surgeon General's call for social media warnings, California's smartphone ban, one-party rule consequences, and the impact of social media on teenagers' mental health.

John Dickerson, essayist and host, discusses the art of attention and slow-looking. Topics include the significance of numbers, personal reflections on family history, math class memories, Audible partnerships, cryptocurrency risks, and the transformative power of mindful observation in art. The chapter emphasizes the value of slowing down, enhancing attention skills, and finding gratitude in small moments.

Emily Bazelon, a prominent journalist, joins seasoned political analyst John Dickerson, and journalist David Plotz to dive into the quirks of political discourse. They discuss Democrats framing JD Vance and Donald Trump's narratives as 'weird,' engaging insights on Kamala Harris's multicultural roots, and evaluate potential vice presidential picks. The trio also reflects on Biden's Supreme Court reform efforts and the cultural implications of modern political strategies. Torie Bosche shares her thoughts on the Edith Roller Journals, weaving personal history with political lessons.

Legal expert Emily Bazelon, political commentator John Dickerson, and journalist David Plotz discuss Biden's disastrous debate performance, Trump's aggressive lying, challenges for fact-checking, and speculations on Biden's withdrawal. They analyze potential scenarios, crafting a positive narrative for Biden, and implications for the election, highlighting the complexities of post-debate dynamics.

Essayist John Dickerson reminisces about his early days in NYC, sharing stories of onboarding his assistant, tips on renting, and getting lost in the village. He references E.B. White's 'Here is New York' and discusses lessons learned from Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock.

This week, guests Emily Bazelon, a renowned legal journalist, John Dickerson, a seasoned political journalist, David Plotz, an accomplished writer and editor, and Josh Levin, a media-focused journalist, dive into urgent discussions on political violence's roots and repercussions. They analyze the incendiary rhetoric shaping societal norms today and the pivotal role of media, particularly Fox News, in influencing public perception. The conversation also touches on the evolving political landscape as they unpack polling dynamics and candidate strategies leading into the 2024 election.

John Dickerson discusses instinct versus obligation and reflects on personal growth since the first episode. Topics include measuring life beyond writing prowess, the connection between feelings of obligation and writing, and the importance of staying true to personal values in creativity.

Writer John Dickerson reflects on moving in New York and remembering 9/11. He discusses the differences in NYC from 1991 to 2021, unpacking memories, apartment hunting chaos, efficiency in small spaces, and finding home in a small apartment after 9/11. The podcast also includes anecdotes from college days in Florence.