Deep Questions with Cal Newport

Brad Stulberg, author and performance writer focused on sustainable excellence, discusses pseudo-excellence versus authentic mastery. They explore how the internet and viral performative routines can hijack deep ambition. Practical advice for young adults on values and reducing social media. The conversation also examines workplace messaging overload and structural fixes to reclaim focused work.

Jonathan Haidt raises alarms about the increasing harms of gambling apps and multiplayer games, emphasizing the addictive nature of their design. He warns against children using AI companions, pointing out their unpredictability and potential dangers. Cal shares his quirky family tech strategy, including using a landline and single-purpose devices to shield kids from smartphones. The discussion also explores the impact of heavy gaming on mental health and academic performance, urging parents to take a cautious approach with new technologies.

The discussion dives into Paul Krugman's successful Substack venture, exploring its potential to reshape journalism. Key statistics reveal his impressive subscriber count and revenue, sparking debates about the viability of paid newsletters. The risks of platform concentration are highlighted alongside the benefits of independent journalism. In a practical segment, viral advice on reducing phone usage is shared, emphasizing the importance of enriching life to curb smartphone dependency. Cal also addresses using ChatGPT for reading and offers insights on effective notebook strategies.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Ed Zitron, an independent tech commentator and AI industry analyst, breaks down the chaos of AI in 2025. He delves into the controversy surrounding DeepSeek's low-cost training, critiques the overhyped idea of AI agents replacing jobs, and highlights the financial instability plaguing AI firms. They also question the impact of model scaling and the unrealistic expectations set for tools like GPT-5. Ultimately, Ed argues 2025 was a terrible year for AI, filled with hype and misleading narratives.

Explore the transformative potential of single-purpose notebooks as Cal shares his personal journey of creativity. He dives into historical examples of great thinkers and artists using similar methods. Discover why these notebooks enhance focus and spark ideas, and learn practical tips for implementing them in daily life. The conversation also touches on the pitfalls of pseudo-productivity in work environments, the neuroscience behind attention, and the evolving landscape of social media engagement.

In this engaging conversation, Cal Newport recommends six transformative books that defy the self-help genre. He delves into Thoreau's Walden as a model for intentional living and discusses Lincoln's moral intelligence derived from literature. The impact of technology on our brains is explored through Nicholas Carr's work, while Richard Rohr's insights on life's hardships offer profound wisdom. Newport also tackles listener questions about parenting in a tech-saturated world and offers strategies for managing multiple creative pursuits.

Tyler Austin Harper, a journalist and scholar, discusses Paul Kingsnorth's provocative book, "Against the Machine." They delve into Kingsnorth's critique of technology and its impact on culture and humanity. Tyler explains how Kingsnorth's deep disillusionment with sustainability led to a spiritual quest and a desire for limits in a tech-driven society. They explore the relevance of AI in sparking critiques of human relationships, emphasizing the need for balance in a world overwhelmed by technology. Harper offers insights into the public's growing resonance with these ideas.

A thought-provoking exploration of whether the internet is evolving into a form of television unfolds with insights from Derek Thompson's essay. The discussion highlights the growing dominance of video content on social media, drawing parallels to the flow of traditional television. Listeners are also treated to practical advice on managing distractions, embracing time blocking, and coping with the incessant scrolling habits of loved ones. As predictions about the future of media are shared, the conversation weaves in a case study on building a fulfilling life post-business success.

Dive into wisdom from legendary writers as tips on managing energy versus time surface. Discover the power of iterative editing from George Saunders and the importance of long-term diligence from Robert Caro. Cal Newport dissects David Grann’s advice on evidence-based planning and reveals Stephen King's secret to consistency. Learn how to recharge as a busy parent, and get insights on optimizing reading habits between focused and joyful experiences. Plus, catch Cal’s take on podcast listening as a learning tool!

The discussion delves into the misconceptions surrounding AI consciousness, debunking claims that language models possess child-like brains. Cal Newport articulates the limitations of current AI systems, emphasizing their lack of goals and deep understanding. He highlights immediate concerns, including cognitive atrophy and the erosion of truth, while offering practical career advice for integrating AI into workflows. Additionally, the episode explores the nuanced differences between LLMs and other AI tools, reaffirming that many fears may be overhyped.